Boxer's fracture

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A boxer's fracture is the common name for a fracture at the neck of the fifth metacarpal bone. It is usually caused by the impact of a clenched fist with an immovable object, such as a wall or skull. The pinky knuckle tends to lead the rest of the knuckles in a hard punch, and the knuckle compresses and snaps the head of the metacarpal bone. These fractues are often angulated, and if severely so require pins to be put in place and realignment as well as the usual splinting. However, the prognosis on these fractures is generally good, with total healing time not exceeding 12 weeks. The first two weeks will show significantly reduced overall swelling with improvement in clenching ability showing up first. Ability to extend the fingers in all directions appears to improve more slowly. Hard casts are rarely required and soft casts or splints can be removed for brief periods of time to allow for activities such as showers and "airing out" the casted or splinted area so as to avoid skin rotting and permit cleansing of the casted or splinted area. Pain from this injury is generally very mild and rarely requires medications beyond over the counter drugs such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Muscle atrophy in isolated areas of 5 to 15 percent should be expected with a rehabilitation period of approximately 4 months given adequate therapy. In the mildest of cases, full rehabilitation status can be achieved within 3 to 4 months.

For smaller angled fractures most discomfort is aleviated by raising the fracture above the heart, also if there is no cast warm water will releave some of the pain. It is important that when the cast is removed that the hand is gently exercised by attempting the common functions of the hand. All advice has been given from fracture patients who first received treatment from an Orthopedic doctor, which in ideal cases should be consulted.