Broken Knuckle

Broken Knuckle

Broken knuckles can be extremely unpleasant. Because of the way that knuckles are damaged, they can be difficult to treat and may never be completely repaired. Broken knuckles may interfere with daily life, so it is important to take proper care of your body at all times. Understanding the prevention, causes, symptoms and treatments will help you care for your body better.

Causes and Prevention of Broken Knuckles

Knuckles are one of the most durable bones in our body. They are usually only damage when they are struck by something hard. The most common way for a knuckle to be broken is when your hand reaches out to prevent a fall. They are also often broken when the person attempts to hit something out of anger, generally a wall. Sometimes they can be broken during fights.

The best way to prevent a broken knuckle is to practice mindfulness throughout the day. The prevent falls, keep your mind aware of your movements. Avoid slippery or dangerous ground. If you find that you are angry, then it is best to control your anger. There is no gain to be made if you choose to punch an object. This will only harm you and potentially cause you financial setbacks. Also, fighting can easily be avoided by using your aggressive energy on more productive hobbies.

Symptoms of Broken Knuckles

1. Pain

Pain is the immediate symptoms of a broken knuckle. The pain may be so extreme that it is felt throughout the arm. It will likely increase in intensity if the hand is moved or something touches it. Ignoring the pain and continuing your actions will likely result in further or irreparable damage.

2. Shock

The body may go into shock after the breaking of a joint. This is a physiological response to a traumatic event. You may experience sweating, dizziness, confusion or even nausea. If you experience shock, sit down and allow your body to recuperate.

3. Swelling

Swelling may start within a short amount of time. This may make it so that your hand is difficult to move. Swelling is due to an increase of red and white blood cells to the area. Swelling may cause additional pain.

4. Numbness

Numbness is often associated with extreme swelling. As the body swells, it can prevent the nerves from properly communicating. You may experiencing the tingling sensation that is associated with numbness.

5. Bruising

Bruising may become visible. This is due to a loss of blood. The tissue around the broken knuckle is saturated with blood. Bruises may appear immediately, in the case of extreme damage, or over time, in the case of less severe damage.

Treatments for Broken Knuckles

1. Treat Wounds

If there is an open wound, then treat it immediately. Failure to treat wounds may lead to infections that may lead to serious medical concerns. Use antiseptics to prevent foreign bacteria from invading your body. Your body will be able to repair itself more efficiently if there is no additional medical problems present. Cover your wounds with gauze.

2. Ice

Using an ice pack or ice wrapped in a towel on the damaged area will reduce swelling. This will help to reduce pain in the future.

3. Compression

Wrap your knuckle to help prevent swelling. This will also help to keep everything in place. The less that your hand moves, the better.

4. Secure

Securing your broken knuckle to another finger will ensure that your damaged area moves less. You may need to keep your fingers together for a few weeks. This will help ensure that your finger is straight after it heals.

5. Elevate

Keep your broken knuckle above your heart. This will help prevent swelling, inflammation and pain. At this time, allow your body to rest for about half an hour. This will give your body time to relax and recuperate.

6. Seek Medical Attention

Go to an emergency room. Your doctor will be able to determine the severity of your break. They will be able to explain to you what kind of fracture may have occurred. Your doctor will be able to give you the medication, such as antibiotics or pain killers, that will you support you a your body heals. They will be able to offer you a variety of medical treatments.

Medical Treatments for Broken Knuckle

1. Splint

There may be a variety of reasons why you may not want to have a surgery. Lack of insurance or finances is a common problem. A splint will help to keep your knuckle in position while your body heals. Your finger will be secured to the neighbouring fingers. This may be uncomfortable, but it will ensure that your body will heal itself without surgery.

2. Pins

Pins may be used to keep your knuckle steady while it heals itself. These are a temporary tool that will be removed after the bones have healed. The benefit of pins is that they are not permanent and will not need to be replaced in the future.

3. Wires

Wires are surgically installed around the fracture. These are used to help the bones remain in place as they heal. The wires are permanent. They are generally only used in more serious fractures.

4. Plates

Plates are another surgical option. They are used most often when the bones around the joints are damaged as well. The plates are permanent. Like wires, they are generally used in severe fractures.

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