Boxer’s Fracture

Description

A broken bone at the knuckle of the smallest finger or the ring finger is called a boxer’s fracture. The metacarpal bones connect the wrist to the fingers and make up the arch of the hand. Fracture of the metacarpal to the little finger (fifth metacarpal) most often occurs near the knuckle. A boxer’s fracture occurs commonly, although not typically, in professional boxers.

Common signs and symptoms

• Severe pain at the time of injury

• Pain, tenderness, and swelling, especially the back of the hand, and later bruising of the hand

• Visible deformity if the fracture is complete, and the bone fragments separate enough to distort normal body contours

• Loss of normal prominence of the knuckle at the little finger

• Numbness or paralysis from swelling in the hand, causing pressure on the blood vessels or nerves (uncommon)

Causes

• A direct blow, such as a striking blow with the fist

• Indirect stress to the hand, such as that caused by twisting or violent muscle contraction (uncommon)

Factors that increase risk

• Hitting objects with unprotected knuckles

• Participation in contact sports (football, rugby)

• Sports that require hitting (boxing, martial arts)

• History of bone or joint disease, such as osteoporosis

Preventive measures

• Maintain appropriate conditioning that includes muscle strength and flexibility, endurance, and cardiovascular fitness.

• For participation in contact sports, wear appropriate protective equipment for the hand, and ensure a proper fit.

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