Understanding Boxer’s Fractures: From Diagnosis to Recovery

If you’ve ever thrown a punch and felt a sharp pain in your hand, you might have experienced a boxer’s fracture. This common injury typically affects the metacarpal bones in your hand, specifically the one connected to your pinky finger. 

With two board-certified hand surgeons here at Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services, our team understands just how common this injury is.

Here’s everything you need to know about boxer’s fractures, including what they are, how to prevent them, and how to treat them.

What is a boxer’s fracture?

A boxer's fracture occurs when the neck of the fifth metacarpal bone breaks, usually resulting from a direct blow with a clenched fist. It’s called a boxer’s fracture because it commonly occurs in boxers and other athletes who use their hands forcefully. 

Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving your hand or fingers. You may also notice a deformity or misalignment in the affected area.

How to reduce your risk of a boxer’s fracture

Boxing is a rigorous and risky workout. Fortunately, you can take steps to reduce your risk of this painful injury. 

When boxing:

• Use the proper technique
• Wear protective gear
• Strengthen your hands 
• Avoid punching hard surfaces
• Follow the proper boxing workout based on your skill level (beginner, intermediate, advanced, etc) to prevent fatigue-related poor form

If you’re boxing at a gym or club, follow safety rules. If you’re tired, take a break. Fatigue can lead to compromised form — and the increased risk of injury.

What to do if you suspect you have a boxer’s fracture

If you suspect you have a boxer’s fracture, take immediate action to minimize complications and promote healing. Here’s what you should do:

Follow first aid steps for fractures 

Immediately after an injury, follow the first aid steps for fractures. 

Carefully remove your boxing glove and try to keep your hand still. Avoid moving or using your hand to prevent further injury. Don’t try to realign any bones on your own. Unless you’ve been trained to apply splints, don’t attempt it.

It’s common for fractures to swell and bruise immediately. You can also apply an ice pack to help manage pain and swelling. 

Seek medical attention

Visit our team Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services team as soon as possible. Our orthopedic hand specialists can:

• Examine your hand
• Take X-rays to confirm your fracture 
• Create a treatment plan based on the severity of your fracture

We may recommend a cast or splint to keep the bone in place while it heals; sometimes, surgery may be necessary to align the bones properly.

Rest and recover

Give your hand plenty of time to rest and follow any rehabilitation exercises prescribed. Your specific recovery time depends on several variables, including the severity and type of fracture in your hand, if you need surgery, and how well your bones are healing. 

While boxing is temporarily off the table, you can still stay active by walking. Walking is an excellent cardiovascular exercise that can help keep you in shape until you’re cleared to return to boxing.

While you recover, eat nourishing foods to help your bones heal, such as bone broth, dark leafy greens, lean protein, nuts, dairy products, and seeds. These foods are rich in protein and minerals — all of which help your bones mend.

Boxer’s fractures aren’t just for boxers

Questions about bone fractures in your hands? While boxer’s fractures are more common in boxers, it’s not uncommon to develop a boxer’s fracture even if you’re not a boxer. Any time you throw a punch, you risk injuring your hand.

If you suspect you have a boxer’s fracture, don’t hesitate to call the location of your choice or click here to request an appointment.