Boxer's Fracture
Overview
Causes
The fracture may be caused by:
- Punching a person or object, such as a wall, with a closed fist
- Falls
- Contact sports
- Squeezing or crushing of the hand
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
A boxer's fracture may cause:
- Swelling
- Pain
- Changes in the way the finger looks
- Problems moving the finger
Treatments
Treatment
The fracture is treated based on the level of injury. Options are:
Initial Care
Initial care may be:
- Ice to ease pain and swelling
- Medicine to ease pain
- Antibiotics to treat infection
- A splint, brace, or cast to keep the finger in place as it heals
- Exercises to help with motion and make the finger strong again
Children's bones have growth plates that let bones grow and harden with age. A child with this type of fracture will need to be checked over time to make sure the bone heals the right way and keeps growing.
Bone Repair
Some fractures cause pieces of bone to come apart. These pieces will need to be put back into the right place. This may be done:
- Without surgery—the pieces are moved back into place
- With surgery—pins, screws, or plates may be used to connect the bones and hold them in place
Prevention
Most fractures happen due to accidents. Healthy bones and muscles may help prevent injury. This may be done through diet and exercise.
To lower your chance of this type of fracture:
- Avoid places where fights may happen.
- Wear safety gear when doing sports.
- Think about going to a therapist to cope with anger or outbursts.
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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