Contents
Is It Just a Bruise? Spotting the Subtle Signs of a Hamate Fracture
Published: Apr 26, 2024
Hamate fractures can be masters of disguise, often mimicking less serious injuries. Learning to recognize their subtle signs can be the key to proper diagnosis and treatment.
The Telltale Tenderness: Where It Hurts
The most common symptom of a hamate fracture is pain, but its location is specific. You'll typically feel tenderness over the hypothenar eminence – that's the padded area on the pinky side of your palm. This pain often intensifies when you grip objects, especially if you're squeezing something tightly.
Grip Troubles: When Holding On Gets Hard
A hamate fracture can significantly affect your grip strength. You might notice weakness or pain when trying to grasp objects, particularly when using your ring and little fingers. This can make everyday tasks like turning doorknobs or holding a cup challenging.
The Nerve Factor: Tingling and Numbness
In some cases, a hamate fracture can affect the nearby ulnar nerve. This might cause tingling, numbness, or weakness in your ring and little fingers. You might also notice difficulty with fine motor tasks involving these fingers. These symptoms can be similar to other nerve conditions, adding to the diagnostic challenge.
The Deceptive Lack of Swelling
Unlike many other fractures, hamate fractures often don't cause significant swelling. This lack of obvious external signs can lead both patients and healthcare providers to underestimate the injury. It's one reason why these fractures are sometimes initially misdiagnosed as simple sprains.
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually yes, but you may have pain or weakness, especially in the ring and little fingers.
Not typically; persistent pain is a key sign that medical evaluation is needed.
Sometimes, especially if the fracture involves the hook portion of the bone.
Not always; the lack of visible bruising can make these fractures easy to overlook.
Yes, especially in cases of stress fractures from repetitive activities.
When in Doubt, Check It Out
If you're experiencing persistent hand pain, especially after an injury or repetitive activity, it's worth getting evaluated for a possible hamate fracture.
References
- Klausmeyer MA, Mudgal CS. J Hand Surg Am 2013; 38:2457.
- Shimizu H, et al. Hand Surg 2012; 17:347.
- Bachoura A, et al. Hand (N Y) 2013; 8:302.
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?