The primary way to fix a dislocated hand is by having a healthcare provider manually relocate (put back into place) the dislocated joint. This process is often referred to as a reduction.
Understanding a Dislocated Hand
A dislocated hand occurs when one of the bones in your hand is forced out of its normal position. This usually involves the joints between the small bones in your hand (the carpals and metacarpals) or the joints between the metacarpals and phalanges (fingers).
The Reduction Procedure
The most crucial step in fixing a dislocated hand involves repositioning the bone(s) back into their correct alignment. Here's what typically happens:
- Assessment: A healthcare professional (usually a doctor or physician's assistant) will examine your hand to determine which joint is dislocated.
- Pain Management: The relocation process can be painful. Pain relief is typically provided through:
- Local Anesthetic: Injected near the joint to numb the area.
- Pain Medication: Oral or intravenous pain relievers to reduce discomfort.
- Relocation (Reduction): The healthcare provider will carefully manipulate the dislocated joint, using specific pushing and pulling movements, to guide the bone(s) back into their proper position. This is done gently to minimize further injury.
- Confirmation: After the reduction, the healthcare provider will:
- Visually inspect the hand to ensure proper alignment.
- Order an X-ray to confirm that the bones are correctly positioned and to rule out any fractures.
Post-Reduction Care
Following the relocation, proper care is essential for healing and preventing re-dislocation:
- Immobilization: A splint, cast, or buddy taping (taping the injured finger to an adjacent, healthy finger) is usually applied to immobilize the joint and allow the ligaments and tissues to heal. The duration of immobilization varies depending on the severity of the injury.
- RICE Therapy:
- Rest: Avoid using the injured hand.
- Ice: Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, to reduce swelling and pain.
- Compression: Use a bandage to provide support and minimize swelling.
- Elevation: Keep your hand elevated above your heart to further reduce swelling.
- Pain Management: Continue taking pain medication as prescribed by your doctor.
- Physical Therapy: Once the initial healing has occurred, physical therapy may be recommended to restore range of motion, strength, and function to your hand.
- Follow-up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are important to monitor your progress and ensure proper healing.
Important Considerations
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: A dislocated hand should be treated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Delaying treatment can lead to complications such as nerve damage, blood vessel damage, or chronic instability of the joint.
- Do Not Attempt to Relocate the Joint Yourself: Trying to fix a dislocated hand on your own can cause further injury.
