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Boxer’s Fracture

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition

Boxer’s Fracture

(Fifth Metacarpal Fracture)

Definition

Boxer's fracture is a break in the long bone that connects the little finger to the wrist. It can take up to 6 weeks to fully heal.

Fractures may either be:

  • Closed—the fracture does not break the skin
  • Open—the fracture breaks through the skin
Bones in the Hand.

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Causes

The fracture may be caused by:

  • Punching a person or object, such as a wall, with a closed fist
  • Falls
  • Contact sports
  • Squeezing or crushing of the hand

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of this fracture are:

  • Taking part in fights
  • Doing contact sports, such as boxing or football
  • Health problems that weaken bones, such as osteoporosis
  • Lower muscle mass
  • Being around violence

Symptoms

A boxer's fracture may cause:

  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Changes in the way the finger looks
  • Problems moving the finger

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. You will also be asked how the injury happened. A physical exam will be done. The finger will be checked.

Images may be taken of your hand. This can be done with x-rays.

Treatment

The fracture is treated based on the level of injury. Options are:

Prevention

Most fractures happen due to accidents. Healthy bones and muscles may help prevent injury. This may be done through diet and exercise.

To lower your chance of this type of fracture:

  • Avoid places where fights may happen.
  • Wear safety gear when doing sports.
  • Think about going to a therapist to cope with anger or outbursts.

Initial Care

Initial care may be:

  • Ice to ease pain and swelling
  • Medicine to ease pain
  • Antibiotics to treat infection
  • A splint, brace, or cast to keep the finger in place as it heals
  • Exercises to help with motion and make the finger strong again

Children's bones have growth plates that let bones grow and harden with age. A child with this type of fracture will need to be checked over time to make sure the bone heals the right way and keeps growing.

RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Hand fractures. Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons website. Available at: https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/hand-fractures. Accessed May 20, 2022.
  • Metacarpal neck fracture—emergency management. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/management/metacarpal-neck-fracture-emergency-management. Accessed May 20, 2022.
  • Wong VW, Higgins JP. Evidence-Based Medicine: Management of Metacarpal Fractures. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2017 Jul;140(1):140e-151e.

Contributors

  • Teresa Briedwell, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS
Last Updated:
2023-03-01

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.