Handling fractures that are done properly will help the recovery process and prevent complications. So therefore, come on Get to know some first aid steps for hand fractures and how to heal them through the explanation below.
Hand fractures can occur in any bone in the hand, including the small bones in the knuckles, to the long bones in the hand. Hand fractures can be caused by an impact or a hard blow to the hand. For example, due to a fall from a height, a traffic accident, or an injury during sports.
First Aid for Hand Fractures
If you or someone else around you has a broken hand, there are several first aid steps you can take, including:
- If there is an open wound, stop the bleeding by pressing the wound with a clean cloth or gauze.
- Do not try to straighten the area of the hand that is suspected of being broken and limit movement as much as possible.
- If possible, immediately remove jewelry or accessories on hand, such as bracelets or rings. This is because a broken hand can lead to swelling, which makes it difficult to remove the jewelry later.
- Compress the area of the hand that is suspected of being broken by using ice cubes that have been wrapped in a cloth. This can relieve pain and swelling.
- If the pain is severe, pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can be taken, according to the directions for use on the package label.
While performing the initial steps above, seek medical help as much as possible or immediately go to the nearest emergency room to get further help.
Hand Fracture Treatment Procedure
When experiencing hand fractures, there are two treatment procedures that can be chosen, namely non-surgical procedures and surgical procedures. The choice depends on the location of the fracture and the severity of the hand fracture experienced by the patient. The following explains more about the two procedures:
Non-surgical procedures
If the hand fracture is considered minor, the doctor will usually try to return the bone to its original position, through a procedure called closed reduction. This closed reduction procedure is usually followed by immobilization using a cast or splint.
Usually this cast or splint will be in place for 3-6 weeks. The doctor will periodically check the condition of the bone until it is considered recovered. To reduce pain and discomfort, your doctor may prescribe several types of medication. Take this drug and do the control according to the doctor's advice.
Surgical procedure
The choice of surgical procedure for hand fractures will be carried out, if the fracture of the hand is accompanied by an open wound and also damages other structures or surrounding tissues, such as muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, or blood vessels.
A surgical procedure is performed to restore the position of the broken hand bones to align and return to their normal position. Usually this procedure will involve devices, such as special metal pens or implants, as well as plates, rods, or screws (plates and screws).
During the recovery period, physiotherapy may be needed to restore hand function to normal.
Broken bones can happen to anyone. However, this condition should not be taken lightly, if possible perform first aid, as described above, and immediately see an orthopedic doctor to prevent complications and permanent bone deformities.
