A Hand Fracture is a break in one or more bones of the hand, which can affect the function of the fingers, thumb, or wrist. Surgery may be required for fractures that are displaced, complex, or involve joint involvement. The goal of surgery is to stabilise the fracture, restore normal anatomy, and promote healing for full functional recovery.

This guide outlines the procedure, recovery timeline, rehabilitation needs, and how Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health can assist with both pre- and post-operative care.

Hand Fracture: Surgery, Recovery, and Rehabilitation

What is a Hand Fracture?

A Hand Fracture refers to a break in the bones of the hand, including the phalanges (finger bones), metacarpals (hand bones), or the carpals (wrist bones). Hand fractures are common in accidents, falls, sports injuries, and traumatic events.

Conditions Treated by Hand Fracture Surgery:

• Displaced fractures (bones are no longer aligned properly).

• Fractures involving joints (e.g., fractures of the metacarpophalangeal joint or wrist).

• Open fractures (when the bone pierces through the skin).

• Complex fractures with multiple bone breaks.

The Hand Fracture Surgery Procedure

1. Pre-Surgical Preparation

• Diagnostic Evaluation: X-rays and possibly CT scans to assess the severity and location of the fracture.

• Pre-Hab Program: If applicable, a rehabilitation program to maintain hand and wrist mobility and strength before surgery.

2. Surgical Techniques

• Closed Reduction: For simple fractures, the surgeon may manipulate the bones back into place without making an incision.

• Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): For more complex fractures, the surgeon makes an incision and uses plates, screws, or rods to stabilize the bones.

• External Fixation: If the fracture is severe and cannot be easily fixed with internal hardware, an external frame may be attached to the bones to hold them in place during healing.

• Duration: The surgery typically lasts 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the fracture.

Recovery Timeline After Hand Fracture Surgery

Short-Term Recovery

• Hospital Stay: Most hand fracture surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day.

• Immobilization: The hand and wrist will likely be placed in a splint or cast to keep the bones in proper alignment.

• Pain Management: Pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications and ice packs to reduce swelling.

• Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are common immediately following the surgery, and they usually subside over time.

Long-Term Recovery

• 2–4 Weeks: After the initial healing phase, you may need to continue wearing a cast or splint to protect the fracture as it heals.

• 6–8 Weeks: X-rays will be taken to monitor bone healing. If necessary, the cast may be replaced with a removable splint.

• 3–6 Months: Full bone healing takes about 3 to 6 months, although function and strength may take longer to return.

Rehabilitation After Hand Fracture Surgery

Phase 1: Early Healing (Weeks 1–4)

• Focus: Protect the fracture site and manage swelling.

• Therapeutic Goals: Minimize pain, swelling, and stiffness while maintaining some movement in the fingers and wrist.

• Exercises:

  • Gentle finger range of motion exercises to prevent stiffness.

  • Isometric exercises to maintain muscle tone without straining the fracture.

Phase 2: Mobility and Strengthening (Weeks 4–8)

• Focus: Gradually regain mobility and prevent long-term stiffness.

• Therapeutic Goals: Restore range of motion and begin strengthening the hand and wrist muscles.

• Exercises:

  • Active range of motion exercises for the hand and wrist.

  • Light strengthening exercises using hand therapy putty or resistance bands.

Phase 3: Functional Rehabilitation (Months 2–6)

• Focus: Return to normal activities such as gripping, typing, and lifting.

• Therapeutic Goals: Improve hand function and dexterity for everyday tasks.

• Exercises:

  • Functional hand exercises for grasping, pinching, and manipulating objects.

  • Progressive strength exercises to regain full hand function.

How Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health Can Help

Pre-Habilitation Services

• Mobility and Strengthening Exercises: Exercises to maintain strength and flexibility in the hand and wrist.

• Pre-Operative Education: Teach patients about post-operative care, such as splinting, managing swelling, and starting rehabilitation.

Post-Operative Rehabilitation

• Custom Rehabilitation Plan: Individualized therapy to restore full mobility, strength, and function.

• Scar Tissue Management: Techniques such as massage, stretching, and desensitization to prevent scar tissue formation and stiffness.

• Functional Rehabilitation: Returning to normal activities like work, sports, and hobbies through task-specific exercises and progressive load-bearing.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long will I need to wear a cast after hand surgery?

Typically, a cast or splint is worn for 4–6 weeks, depending on the severity of the fracture. Afterward, you may be transitioned to a removable splint for further protection.

2. When can I return to work after hand fracture surgery?

For desk jobs, return to work is typically possible after 2–3 weeks, but for physical jobs, it may take 6–8 weeks before you can safely return to your duties.

3. Will I have full use of my hand after surgery?

With proper rehabilitation, most patients regain full or near-full use of their hand. However, it may take several months to return to pre-injury levels of function.

4. Is hand fracture surgery painful?

Post-operative pain is usually mild to moderate and can be managed with pain medication and ice packs. Any pain typically decreases significantly within the first few weeks.

Book Your Pre-Hab or Rehab Program Today!

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we offer specialized pre-habilitation and post-operative rehabilitation services to ensure the best possible recovery after Hand Fracture Surgery.

Reputable Australian Resources

• Health Direct – Hand Fracture: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/hand-fracture

• Better Health Channel – Fractures: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/fractures

• Australian Orthopaedic Association: https://www.aoa.org.au