Contents
What You Need to Know About Metacarpal Neck Fractures
Published: May 02, 2024
Metacarpal neck fractures are a common hand injury, often resulting from punching or direct trauma. This article will cover the essentials of this condition, including causes and symptoms.
Why Do These Fractures Occur?
Metacarpal neck fractures frequently happen when a person punches a hard object, leading to a break in the neck of the bone. Young males are the most affected group. Another common cause of these fractures is falling, although this mechanism is less common than direct trauma.
Recognizing the Symptoms
If you have a metacarpal neck fracture, you might notice pain and swelling on the back of your hand. There may also be a visible deformity in the area of the fracture. Additionally, you may feel tenderness or see bruising on the palm side, which strongly suggests a fracture.
Diagnosing the Fracture
Doctors use X-rays to diagnose metacarpal neck fractures and determine the degree of bone angulation. Ultrasounds can also be helpful and are sometimes used for initial diagnosis. These imaging methods distinguish fractures from other injuries like bruises or dislocations.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's often caused by punching a hard object.
Young males are the most affected group.
Diagnosis is typically made using X-rays.
Pain, swelling, and deformity are common symptoms.
Key Takeaways
Understanding the causes and symptoms of metacarpal neck fractures can help in seeking timely medical attention.
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.
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