Contents
Thumb Metacarpal Fractures: Are You at Risk?
Published: Jul 10, 2024
Thumb metacarpal fractures are common hand injuries, especially in young males who engage in sports. Understanding these fractures can help you prevent them and seek appropriate treatment if needed.
What Are Thumb Metacarpal Fractures?
Thumb metacarpal fractures refer to breaks in the bone of the thumb, which is crucial for hand function. These fractures often occur at the base of the bone due to its unique anatomy and the forces acting on it. The thumb's mobility and lack of support from adjacent bones make it prone to injuries from direct impacts.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Thumb fractures are most common among young males aged 10 to 29, usually due to sports or accidents. Older adults over 65 years are also at risk. Activities like punching or falling while gripping something, like a bike handlebar, often lead to these injuries.
Diagnostic Insights
To diagnose a thumb metacarpal fracture, doctors typically use X-rays but may also use ultrasound for a clearer picture. Identifying the exact type of fracture is essential for deciding the treatment plan, whether surgical or non-surgical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Falls, sports injuries, and direct impacts like punching can cause these fractures.
Young males aged 10-29 are most at risk due to sports activities.
They are diagnosed using X-rays and sometimes ultrasound.
The Bennett fracture is a common type involving the base of the thumb.
Key Takeaways
Understanding the risks and diagnosis of thumb metacarpal fractures can help in early treatment and recovery.
References
- Ashkenaze DM, Ruby LK. Metacarpal fractures and dislocations. Orthop Clin North Am 1992; 23:19.
- Nakashian MN, Pointer L, Owens BD, Wolf JM. Incidence of metacarpal fractures in the US population. Hand (N Y) 2012; 7:426.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?