If you are concerned that you might have a hand fracture, there are some obvious symptoms to look for. Once the problem has been identified there are several treatment options.
After experiencing a blow to the hand, maybe from a falling object or as a result of the hand striking an object, pain, swelling, noticeable change in shape and difficulty moving the fingers could all be signs of a fracture. Of course, one these symptoms on its own could be indicative of another type of a less serious injury, such as a sprained wrist. However, when they linger, a visit to the doctor is a good idea.
Once a fracture is diagnosed, there are different avenues of care. When the bone is not dislocated, casts and splints are often the only means of treatment needed. These devices will keep the bone(s) and hand in the right position while healing takes place. A hard cast will provide a barrier against additional trauma that might cause more damage or at least more pain.
When casts and splints are deemed inadequate for the seriousness of an injury, small metal pins may be used. These pins, which can usually be inserted while the patient is under the affect of a local anesthesia, hold bones in place. Once the damage has healed the pins can usually be removed. Both the inserting and the removal are relatively simple procedures.
In extreme cases, metal plates and screws are used. However, these aids are more often seen in the care of breaks in other regions of the body.
If it turns out that you indeed have a hand fracture, the type of treatment will be determined by the location and the extent of damage. An examination and x-rays should give your doctor a precise picture of the wound and help him devise an appropriate plan of treatment.