Hand injuries happen in many different ways. The most common kinds of hand injuries are fractures, dislocations, laceration or avulsion, and burns. Here at H&D Physical Therapy, hand therapy in New York City, we offer many services to treat an abundance of hand injuries. 

Types Of Hand Injuries That Require Hand Therapy In New York City:

Fractures are when a bone is broken due to some kind of force impacting it. A hand fracture is called a broken hand or a boxer’s fracture. A hand fracture can happen if you punch something hard with your fist. When this happens, the thumb and index finger bones (called the metacarpals) break and stick out through the skin on the palm side of your hand.

Dislocations are when a bone comes out of its socket at a joint.

 A hand dislocation is called an “open” dislocation. An open or complete dislocation can happen if you fall on your hand and the bones of the palm push up into your wrist. This might also happen if you quickly hit something hard with your hand, like a baseball bat. When this happens, the thick bone that connects to your pinky finger (called the trapezium) dislocates (pops out of the socket at the base of your hand).

A laceration is when you cut or tear your skin. A laceration on the palm is called a palm laceration. To get a palm laceration, something has to hit or scrape across your palm, like a fall on the pavement. Your palm might also get scratched if you use your hand to protect yourself from something sharp or rough hitting or scraping across it.

hand therapy in New York City

Risk Factors:

Some risk factors of hand injuries are :

  • Being a man between the ages of 16 and 35 years old.
  • Having a home business with tools around, like a carpenter or mechanic.
  • Being an alcoholic.
  • Participating in sports that can injure the hands, such as boxing or skiing.
  • Ways you might prevent hand injuries are:  
  • Protecting your hands with gloves while doing things that can injure them.
  • Not taking part in sports that would injure the hands, like boxing or skiing.
  • Wearing protective gear when driving (such as gloves).

Always seek medical attention for any open (complete) fractures or dislocations that you have. These kinds of hand injuries can be dangerous because they can damage blood vessels and nerves in your hand, leading to loss of function of your hand.

Treatment:

Treatment options for hand injuries are :

  • Ibuprofen or acetaminophen for any pain. You can also put ice on the area to help reduce swelling.
  • Hand Therapy in New York City
  • If your hand is cut, it might need stitches. A broken bone might need a cast, splint, surgery,or other treatment. Before getting medical treatment for your hand injury, make sure that you tell the doctor about all of your symptoms and medical history.
  • Other things to think about:
  • Always be sure to wear protective gear when doing sports or driving that might injure the hands (gloves).
  • If you do not wear gloves to protect yourself, make sure that you are using tools correctly and carefully.
  • Do not drink alcohol before doing any sports or driving that might injure the hands.
  • Do not take part in boxing or skiing as those can easily injure your hand.

Contact Us: Hand Therapy in New York City

As you can see, hand injuries are very common but can still be very severe. Our staff knows all the ins and outs of hand injuries. They are both educated and experienced in this field; and are eager to help you. Contact us today to make an appointment with us.