Masai Kofa

BOXER’S FRACTURE

is defined as a break through the bones of the hand that form the knuckles

Boxer's fractures occur in the metacarpal bones that connect the ring finger or the little finger to the wrist.

These are known as the fourth and fifth metacarpal bones

OVERVIEW

Most common causes-punching an object with a closed fist.

This occurs commonly during fist fights or from punching a hard object such as a wall or filing cabinet.

Although these breaks usually occur when the hand is closed into a fist, they can also occur when the hand is not

clenched and strikes a hard object.

HOW YOU GET IT

5th metacarpal

ANATOMY

immobilize the injured hand

an ice pack to the injured area

If ice is not available, placing a towel soaked in cold water on the injured hand will work

AT-HOME CARE

it is possible for a portion of the metacarpal bone to move out of normal alignment. This is called angulation. The

amount of angulation will determine what type of treatment is required to ensure proper healing.

People with boxer's fractures who have acceptable amounts of angulation may be splinted in the emergency department

or doctor's office

MEDICAL CARE

Doctors may use splints

Surgery may be needed

MEDICAL CARE(CONT.)

People who need surgery, recover time longer

If splint, physical therapy maybe needed

RECOVERY