Fracture of the Metacarpal Head

Definition:
A break, especially the breaking of a bone or cartilage in the metacarpal head.
Symptoms:
  • Pain in the hand
  • Swelling in the hand
  • Loss of ROM in the hand
  • Bruising
  • Possible deformity in the hand
Causes:
  • Direct blow
  • Crush injury
Treatment:
  • Period of immobilization
  • Progress to ROM and stretching exercises
  • Hand intrinsic muscle strengthening
  • Upper extremity strengthening