In the human body there is a huge amount of bones, the role and importance of which we do not think about. So, for example, the metacarpal bones of the hand play a crucial role in the natural motor abilities of the fingers. It is quite possible to protect these bones from injury, the main thing is to know where they are located and what they can suffer from.
The structure of the hand
In the composition of the bones of the human hand, namely her hand, an important role is played by the metacarpal bones. These are small tubular bones that extend from the wrist itself in the amount of five pieces, thereby forming peculiar rays.
There are five metacarpal bones on each hand. Their numbering starts with the bone that belongs to the thumb. Due to their structure and location, these bones are actively involved in the motor ability of the fingers. They are involved in flexion and extension movements.
Each such bone includes:
- body;
- epiphysis.
Despite their importance, these bones are easily vulnerable. They are easily palpable through the skin of the hand and are most often injured if any blow falls on the hand. So, the most common causes of fractures are fights, unsuccessful falls. Medical statistics show that the first and fifth bones are the most affected.
Types of metacarpal fractures
Specialists note that bone fractures in the hand area are most common in men, women with such injuries are extremely rare.
Metacarpal fractures are classified identically to injuries to other bones in the body:
- Fracture closed.
- Open fracture.
- Fracture with displacement.
- Fracture without displacement.
An interesting fact is that a fracture of the base of the first metacarpal is commonly called a "boxer's fracture". Such an injury is most common in athletes, as well as in men involved in fights.
The fifth metacarpal and its fracture
The reason for the fracture of the fifth bone can be an unsuccessful fall on the hand, a blow with a heavy object on the hand. By itself, a fracture is a violation of the integrity of the bone, which is accompanied by sharp pain and swelling in the area of injury. Hematomas are often formed, and the movement of the finger will cause unpleasant pain.
The most unpleasant is a fracture of the 5th metacarpal bone with displacement, which, most likely, will require further surgical intervention. This type of injury significantly impairs the motor ability of the hand.
Metacarpal fracture is usually divided into three types:
- At the base of the bone closest to the wrist.
- Uthe head of the bone, which is located in the area of the metacarpophalangeal joint.
- In the center of the bone.
As you can see, despite the small size, the metacarpal bone in case of a fracture requires a detailed study. Further motor abilities in the hand area will depend on proper treatment and recovery.
If we talk about a fracture with a displacement, then doctors note that most often there is not a lateral, but an angular displacement of the bone. Lateral dislocation of the metacarpal often results in soft tissue interposition and is accompanied by other associated injuries.
Fracture symptoms
Symptoms of a metacarpal fracture are identical to those of most fractures:
- Sharp pain in the area of injury.
- Swelling and discoloration of the skin.
- The formation of a hematoma at the site of injury.
- Violation of the motor ability of the finger (partially or completely).
- There may be a shortening of the little finger on the back of the hand.
Fracture of the fifth metacarpal bone will require a thorough diagnosis from the doctor. X-rays need to be taken in two planes, but an MRI may often be needed to determine the level of damage not only to bones, but also to soft tissues.
In ambiguous cases, an X-ray of a he althy arm is taken in order to compare the images later and identify the main damage. At first glance, a fracture of the fifth metacarpal bone can be mistaken for a dislocation, which is why it is better to get an examination and not delay this issue.
Methods of fracture treatment
If an ordinary fracture occurs, without accompanying complications, then the treatment is performed according to the traditional method. A cast is applied to limit unwanted arm movement.
As a rule, a cast is left on the arm for 4 to 6 weeks in order not to take risks and avoid re-injury. After removing the bandage, the patient feels some stiffness in movements, which is an absolute norm. It will take some time to develop and restore all the basic capabilities of the hand of the injured hand.
If a fracture with displacement occurs, the doctor prescribes osteosynthesis, in other words, surgical intervention is necessary. During the operation, fragments of the fifth metacarpal bone are fixed with pins, plates or screws (depending on the complexity of the fracture and the patient's capabilities).
The pins and screws are also removed with the help of surgical procedures, but the plate can be left in the hand if it does not cause pronounced discomfort. Otherwise, the plate is removed, but this happens at least a year after the first operation.
It is important to note that when applying a cast, the hand remains motionless for a long time. After the operation, the motor abilities of the hand can return after a few days.
The type of treatment required is determined only by the attending physician, based on the patient's examination data.
Recovery period after a fracture
Any fracture requires a certain periodrecovery, so that the patient can feel the full motor capabilities of the injured area. A fracture of the fifth metacarpal is no exception in this matter.
For accelerated rehabilitation, the patient is prescribed a number of physiotherapy procedures and exercise therapy. The doctor may prescribe the use of special ointments and gels to quickly remove swelling from the hand.
Among the useful exercises are the following:
- Throwing small parts or groats, which allows you to restore fine motor skills of the fingers.
- Slow, rather slow clenching and unclenching fingers into a fist.
- Slow circular motions with the hand.
With the careful implementation of these exercises, as well as regular visits to medical rehabilitation procedures, the rehabilitation period will pass unnoticed.
