Hand Injuries
If you have experienced a hand injury or are experiencing symptoms affecting your hand or wrist, our orthopaedic team can provide a thorough assessment and personalised care plan. You can visit our clinic or book an online orthopaedic consultation. Hand injuries can affect bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, nerves, or skin, therefore, timely diagnosis and appropriate management are important for recovery.
Common Causes of Hand Injuries
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Sports injuries
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Workplace or work related injuries
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Falls or direct trauma
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RSI due to repetitive hand use or overuse
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Cuts or lacerations from sharp objects
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Crush injuries
Types of Hand Injuries
Fractures
Fractures can involve the fingers (phalanges), palm bones (metacarpals), or wrist bones (carpals). Some fractures require immobilisation, while others may need surgical stabilisation, depending on alignment and severity.
Tendon Injuries
Injuries to tendons can limit finger or thumb movement. These may result from deep cuts or overload injuries and often require surgical repair followed by hand therapy.
Ligament Injuries
Sprains or tears of ligaments can lead to joint instability, particularly in the thumb or finger joints. Treatment options include splinting, hand therapy, or surgical reconstruction, depending on severity.
Nerve Injuries
Nerve injuries may occur due to trauma or compression (e.g. carpal tunnel syndrome). Symptoms can include numbness, tingling, or weakness. Management may involve splinting, therapy, or surgical decompression.
Soft Tissue Injuries & Lacerations
Cuts and soft tissue injuries may involve skin, tendons, or nerves. Early assessment is essential, especially for deep or contaminated wounds, to reduce infection risk and promote healing.
Crush Injuries
These complex injuries may affect multiple tissue layers. Prompt assessment is essential to exclude complications like compartment syndrome or vascular injury.
Infections
Infections of the hand (e.g. from bites, punctures, or wounds) can spread quickly. Redness, swelling, warmth, and pus may indicate infection and should be reviewed promptly by a healthcare provider.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Initial evaluation may include:
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- Physical examination
- X-rays (to assess for fractures)
- Ultrasound or MRI (for tendon or ligament injuries)
- Nerve conduction studies (for suspected nerve damage)
Treatment Options
Treatment is individualised and may include:
- Rest and immobilisation with a splint or cast
- Wound care and antibiotics
- Surgical repair (where necessary)
- Referral to a hand therapist for rehabilitation
Our orthopaedic team will work closely with physiotherapists and hand therapists to develop a personalised recovery plan.
When to Seek Medical Attention
You should see a qualified healthcare provider if you experience:
- Severe or persistent pain
- Inability to move the hand or fingers
- Numbness or tingling
- A deep or contaminated wound
- Signs of infection (e.g. redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge)
How do I know if my hand injury is serious?
You should seek medical attention if you experience:
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Severe pain or swelling
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Numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation
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Inability to move your fingers or hand
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Deformity or visible injury
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A deep or contaminated wound
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Signs of infection (redness, warmth, swelling, or pus)
Should I see a doctor for a minor hand injury?
Even minor injuries can involve underlying structures such as tendons, ligaments, or nerves. If symptoms persist or interfere with hand movement, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a proper assessment.
What should I do immediately after a hand injury?
Initial first aid may include:
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Resting the hand
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Applying ice to reduce swelling
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Keeping the hand elevated
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Covering open wounds with a clean dressing
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Seeking prompt medical advice
Avoid moving or putting weight on the hand until it has been assessed.
Will I need an X-ray or scan?
This depends on the type and severity of the injury. Your doctor may request:
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X-rays to check for fractures
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Ultrasound or MRI for soft tissue injuries
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Nerve conduction studies if nerve injury is suspected
All imaging decisions are made on a case-by-case basis
Do all hand fractures require surgery?
Not all fractures require surgery. Some can be treated with immobilisation alone if the bones are well-aligned. Surgery may be recommended for fractures that are displaced, unstable, or involve joint surfaces.
How long does it take to recover from a hand injury?
Recovery time varies depending on the type and severity of the injury. Minor injuries may heal in a few weeks, while complex injuries or those requiring surgery may take several months, often with hand therapy.
Will I need physiotherapy or hand therapy?
Hand therapy is often recommended to restore strength, flexibility, and function—especially after surgery or prolonged immobilisation. Your specialist may refer you to a certified hand therapist as part of your recovery plan.
Can I return to work or sport after a hand injury?
Most people are able to return to their usual activities once healing is complete. Your return to work or sport will depend on the type of injury, your role or activity level, and how well you respond to treatment.
What happens if I delay treatment for a hand injury?
Delaying treatment may increase the risk of complications, such as:
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Reduced hand function
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Poor bone healing
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Chronic stiffness or pain
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Infection (in open wounds)
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Nerve damage
Prompt assessment can help avoid long-term issues.
Can hand injuries be prevented?
Many hand injuries can be reduced or prevented by:
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Wearing appropriate protective gear
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Using proper lifting or sports techniques
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Taking breaks from repetitive tasks
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Maintaining a safe workspace
Do I need a referral to see an orthopaedic specialist?
Yes, a referral from your GP is typically required to see an orthopaedic surgeon under Medicare or private health insurance. This also helps coordinate care and streamline investigations such as imaging or pathology if needed.
