Metacarpal fracture
Diagnosis of metacarpal and boxer's fractures, with attention to rotation, stability and hand function.
The metacarpals connect the wrist to the fingers. A metacarpal fracture can follow a punch, fall or direct impact; a fracture at the neck of the fifth metacarpal is commonly called a boxer's fracture.
Assessment
Pain, swelling, bruising and a flattened knuckle are common. Rotation is particularly important: when making a fist, one finger should not cross over another. Examination checks skin, tendons, sensation, stability and alignment, while X-rays define displacement.
Non-surgical and surgical treatment
Stable fractures without rotation may be treated with functional immobilisation and controlled movement. Unacceptable rotation, shortening or angulation, instability, an open wound or joint involvement may require reduction and fixation with wires, screws or a plate.
Return to activity
The aim is to protect healing without immobilising longer than necessary. Loading, manual work and sport are resumed according to clinical and imaging follow-up.
Preparing for your appointment
English-speaking consultations are available in Barcelona and Vic. If possible, bring previous X-rays or scans, medical reports, a medication list and details of your insurer. New imaging can be arranged when clinically needed.
Do you need an assessment?
Frequently asked questions
- What is a boxer's fracture?
- It is a fracture of the fifth metacarpal neck near the little-finger knuckle, often caused by punching a hard object.
- Does a flattened knuckle always require surgery?
- Not necessarily. Rotation, stability, angulation, joint involvement and function matter more to the decision.
- Can I move my fingers?
- For stable patterns, guided early movement can reduce stiffness, but it should follow the specialist's instructions.
Medical references
General information; it does not replace an individual medical assessment.
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