- +91 75677 67701
- 24*7 Emergency Care
Don’t let a sports hand injury end your game
Book your consultation
Satisfied Patients
0 +
Sports Hand Injury Surgeries
0 +
Awards
0 +
Years
0 +
Sports hand injury
Sports-related hand injuries are not uncommon, given the physical nature of many athletic activities. Whether caused by a sudden impact, repetitive motions, or overuse, hand injuries can range from mild strains to severe fractures. These injuries can significantly affect your ability to perform in your sport, and they can also disrupt daily activities. This comprehensive guide explores the common types of sports hand injuries, effective treatment options, recovery strategies, and prevention methods.
Common types of sports hand injuries
1. Fractures (Broken bones): Fractures are one of the most common sports-related hand injuries and typically occur when the hand or wrist is exposed to a sudden impact or fall. Fractures can affect different parts of the hand, including the fingers, metacarpals (bones of the hand), and the wrist bones. Some of the most frequent fractures include:
- Phalangeal fractures: Breaks in the fingers, often caused by a direct hit or catching the ball in sports like basketball.
- Metacarpal fractures: A fracture in the hand bones, which may occur during high-impact activities such as boxing or rugby.
- Distal radius fractures: Fractures of the wrist bone, typically from a fall on an outstretched hand in sports like volleyball or tennis.
- Scaphoid fractures: A break in one of the wrist bones, frequently seen in sports involving falls, like skateboarding or skiing.
- Phalangeal fractures: Breaks in the fingers, often caused by a direct hit or catching the ball in sports like basketball.
Symptoms: Intense pain at the site of the fracture, visible deformity, swelling, bruising, difficulty moving the hand or wrist, and sometimes numbness.
Common sports: Football, Rugby, Basketball, Tennis, Ice Hockey, Skateboarding.
2. Dislocations: A dislocation occurs when a bone is displaced from its normal position in a joint. Hand dislocations can happen when a person falls on an outstretched hand or when there’s a direct impact. The most common dislocations are those of the fingers and thumb joints.
Symptoms: Sudden, severe pain, visible deformity, inability to move the affected joint, swelling, and tenderness.
Common sports: Basketball, Football, Rugby, Martial Arts, Volleyball, Baseball.
3. Ligament injuries (Sprains & Tears): Ligaments are tough, fibrous tissues that connect bones together and stabilize joints. Ligament injuries, such as sprains or tears, occur when these tissues are overstretched or torn. In sports that involve gripping, twisting, or repetitive motions, such injuries are common. Common types include:
- Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries: Common in sports like baseball or football, where the thumb is stressed during gripping or tackling.
- Collateral ligament injuries: Affects the side ligaments of the fingers or wrists, often occurring from falls or direct hits.
- Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries: Common in sports like baseball or football, where the thumb is stressed during gripping or tackling.
Symptoms: Pain, swelling, bruising, joint instability, difficulty moving the joint, and sometimes a feeling of weakness or giving way.
Common sports: Football, Rugby, Basketball, Tennis, Cricket, Baseball.
4. Tendon injuries (Strains & Tears): Tendons are the tissues that connect muscles to bones. Tendon injuries are typically caused by overuse, sudden movements, or forceful gripping. Common tendon injuries in sports involve the flexor or extensor tendons of the fingers, which control finger movement.
- Extensor tendon injuries: Lead to an inability to extend the finger.
- Flexor tendon injuries: Result in difficulty bending the finger.
- Extensor tendon injuries: Lead to an inability to extend the finger.
Symptoms: Pain, difficulty moving the affected finger, swelling, bruising, and weakness.
Common sports: Tennis (e.g., “tennis elbow” or “Golfer’s elbow”), Baseball (e.g., pitcher’s tendonitis), Rock Climbing, Gymnastics.
5. Fracture-dislocations: This injury is a combination of a bone fracture and a dislocation. It occurs when a bone is broken, and a joint is displaced from its normal position. This complex injury requires immediate medical attention and often surgical intervention.
Symptoms: Immediate pain, visible deformity, inability to move the joint, swelling, and bruising.
Common sports: Football, Rugby, Ice Hockey, Basketball.
6. Overuse injuries: Overuse injuries occur when repetitive movements or sustained pressure on the hand leads to stress fractures, tendinitis, or nerve compression. These injuries are often seen in athletes who engage in repetitive actions such as gripping, throwing, or swinging. Conditions like:
- Tendinitis: Inflammation of tendons due to repetitive motion.
- Stress fractures: Small cracks in bones due to constant stress over time.
- Nerve compression injuries: Caused by constant pressure on nerves during gripping or repetitive motions.
- Tendinitis: Inflammation of tendons due to repetitive motion.
Symptoms: Gradual onset of pain that worsens with activity, swelling, tenderness, and restricted movement.
Common sports: Tennis, Baseball, Golf, Swimming, Rowing, Weightlifting.
7. Nerve injuries (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome): Nerve compression or irritation occurs when a nerve in the wrist or hand is pinched or squeezed due to swelling or repetitive movement. This can cause symptoms of tingling, numbness, and weakness. In sports, activities like gripping, lifting, or striking can lead to nerve injuries.
Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness, particularly in the fingers and wrist.
Common sports: Tennis, Golf, Weightlifting, Hockey, Baseball.
Diagnosis of sports hand injuries
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment of sports hand injuries. A proper diagnosis ensures that the underlying cause of the injury is identified and the most appropriate treatment plan is chosen. Diagnosing sports hand injuries typically involves a combination of the following methods:
- Clinical examination: A thorough physical examination is often the first step in diagnosing a hand injury. The doctor will ask about the symptoms, the history of the injury, and any specific circumstances (e.g., a fall, collision, or repetitive activity). They will check for signs of swelling, bruising, deformities, and any limitations in movement.
- Imaging tests: Imaging plays a crucial role in confirming the diagnosis and determining the severity of the injury. Common imaging tests used for hand injuries include:
- X-rays: Essential for diagnosing fractures, dislocations, and bone-related injuries. X-rays can help identify bone alignment, fractures, or the need for surgical intervention.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI is useful for assessing soft tissue injuries, such as ligament, tendon, or nerve damage. It provides detailed images of soft tissues and helps doctors evaluate the extent of any tears or strains.
- CT scan (Computed Tomography): Sometimes used for complex fractures or when more detailed images are needed. CT scans can provide 3D images of bone structures, which can be helpful for pre-surgical planning.
- X-rays: Essential for diagnosing fractures, dislocations, and bone-related injuries. X-rays can help identify bone alignment, fractures, or the need for surgical intervention.
- Ultrasound: Ultrasound may be used to assess soft tissue injuries like tendon or ligament tears. It is a non-invasive imaging tool that allows real-time visualization of tissues and can be used to guide injections or other treatments.
- Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS): If a nerve injury or compression (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome) is suspected, nerve conduction studies may be performed. These tests measure the electrical activity of nerves and help assess the extent of nerve damage.
- Arthroscopy: In some cases, particularly when there is joint damage or when other imaging tests cannot provide conclusive information, arthroscopy (a minimally invasive surgical procedure) may be performed. This allows the doctor to directly view the inside of the joint using a small camera.
Sports hand injury treatment in Ahmedabad
Non-surgical treatments
1. Rest
Rest is one of the most essential aspects of healing. Taking time off from sports or activities that stress the injured hand allows the body to repair damaged tissues, bones, or joints. It is particularly useful for injuries like sprains, strains, and minor fractures.
Cons:
- Prolonged rest can lead to muscle weakness or stiffness in the affected hand.
- Inactive periods may affect an athlete’s overall conditioning or performance.
Recommendation: Rest should be followed as advised, but it is crucial to resume gentle movements and exercises after the initial healing phase to avoid stiffness and loss of strength.
2. Ice therapy
Ice therapy is effective in reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation in the injured hand. Applying ice to the injury can be particularly useful during the first 48 hours following an injury to limit the extent of tissue damage.
Cons:
- Prolonged or excessive use of ice can cause tissue damage, such as frostbite.
- Ice may numb the area temporarily, which could lead to overexertion before the injury is fully healed.
- Not a long-term solution for restoring mobility or strength.
Recommendation: Apply ice for 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours for the first 48 hours. After that, it can be used less frequently, as needed.
3. Compression
Compression using bandages or wraps can help reduce swelling by providing gentle pressure around the injured area. It also offers additional support to stabilize the hand or wrist.
Cons:
- Too much compression can reduce blood flow and hinder the healing process.
- Incorrect application may cause additional strain or discomfort.
- Compression may be uncomfortable for some individuals, particularly if it’s too tight.
Recommendation: Ensure compression is applied correctly, and avoid wrapping too tightly. Use compression bandages or wraps designed for hand or wrist injuries to avoid discomfort and complications.
4. Splinting & Orthotics
Elevation involves raising the injured hand above the level of the heart to reduce swelling. This position helps promote blood flow away from the injured area, thereby reducing fluid accumulation and inflammation.
Cons:
- Can be inconvenient, as the hand must be kept elevated for extended periods.
- Limited effect on pain relief or long-term healing.
- Prolonged elevation may lead to stiffness if the hand isn’t moved occasionally.
Recommendation: Elevate the hand whenever possible, especially in the first 48 hours following injury. Combine with other therapies (ice, compression) for optimal results.
5. Splints & Braces
Splints and braces are designed to immobilize the hand, wrist, or fingers to prevent further movement that could aggravate the injury. They are particularly useful for fractures, sprains, or ligament injuries.
Cons:
- Prolonged use of splints or braces can lead to muscle atrophy or stiffness.
- May restrict daily activities and be uncomfortable for extended use.
- Can cause pressure sores or skin irritation if not applied properly.
Recommendation: Use splints or braces as recommended by your healthcare provider. Make sure they are adjusted correctly to prevent discomfort or additional complications.
6. Physical therapy
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the recovery of hand injuries. It focuses on restoring mobility, flexibility, strength, and function to the affected hand. Physical therapy may involve exercises, stretching, and other rehabilitation techniques once the injury has healed enough for movement.
Cons:
- Physical therapy requires time and consistency.
- It can be painful during the initial stages, especially if the injury has caused significant loss of mobility.
- The effectiveness of physical therapy depends on the patient’s commitment and the injury’s severity.
Recommendation: Start physical therapy only after the acute healing phase to avoid further strain. Consistent attendance and following the prescribed exercises are essential for optimal recovery.
While non-surgical treatments help manage sports hand injuries and promote healing, they are often temporary solutions focused on pain relief. For more severe injuries, such as large fractures, complete tendon ruptures, or ligament tears that don’t heal with conservative methods, surgery may be necessary for full recovery and to prevent long-term complications.
Surgical treatments provide a more permanent solution when non-surgical options are insufficient. Consulting a specialist is essential to determine the best approach based on injury severity and recovery goals.
Surgical treatment
While many hand injuries can be managed with non-surgical treatments such as rest, ice, and physical therapy, some injuries may require surgery, particularly those that involve severe damage or do not heal properly with conservative methods. Surgical intervention is necessary to restore function, relieve pain, and prevent long-term disability. The type of surgery performed will depend on the specific injury, its severity, and the location of the damage. Below are some of the most common surgical procedures used to treat sports-related hand injuries:
1. Fracture reduction (Bone realignment & fixation)
Fracture reduction is a surgical procedure performed to realign broken bones, particularly when the bone fragments are displaced or when the fracture is not healing properly. The goal of this procedure is to restore the normal shape and function of the bone, which is crucial for proper hand movement.
Procedure:
- Closed reduction: In some cases, a closed reduction may be done, where the surgeon aligns the bone without making an incision. This is typically done using local anesthesia.
- Open reduction: If the fracture is severe or the bone fragments cannot be realigned manually, an open reduction is performed. This involves making an incision to expose the broken bone, realign the fragments, and secure them in place.
After the fracture is reduced (realigned), the surgeon will secure the bones with various types of fixation devices to ensure the bone stays in place during healing. These may include:
- Pins: Small metal rods inserted through the skin or into the bone to hold the fragments together.
- Screws: Screws may be inserted into the bone to hold it together, especially in fractures of the metacarpal or phalangeal bones.
- Plates: A metal plate may be attached to the bone with screws to stabilize it and hold the fragments in place.
Recovery:
- After surgery, the hand may be immobilized in a cast or splint for several weeks to protect the bone and allow healing.
- The recovery time depends on the type of fracture, but typically, healing takes 6–12 weeks, with additional time for rehabilitation and physical therapy.
2. Tendon repair
Tendon injuries, such as tears or ruptures, often occur during sports activities that involve gripping, twisting, or sudden movements. Tendons are the connective tissues that attach muscles to bones, and when they are torn, it can severely limit the function of the hand or fingers.
Procedure:
- Tendon suturing: If the tendon is partially or fully torn, the surgeon will carefully suture the torn ends back together. This is typically done using fine, strong sutures that can hold the tendon in place while it heals.
- Tendon grafting: In cases where the tendon is severely damaged or cannot be repaired by suturing, a tendon graft may be required. This involves using a tendon from another part of the body (often from the forearm or wrist) or from a donor to replace the damaged tendon.
The surgeon will also ensure that the repaired tendon is properly positioned to allow for optimal function once healing is complete.
Recovery:
- After tendon repair, the hand may be immobilized in a splint or cast for a period of 4–6 weeks to protect the tendon as it heals.
- Physical therapy is often required after the initial healing phase to restore strength and flexibility to the tendon and surrounding muscles.
3. Ligament reconstruction (Rebuilding or Repairing torn ligaments)
Ligaments are tough, fibrous tissues that connect bones to one another and help stabilize the joints. Ligament injuries, such as sprains, tears, or ruptures, are common in contact sports and can affect the stability of the joints in the hand, especially in the fingers or thumb.
Procedure:
- Ligament repair: If a ligament is partially torn, the surgeon may perform a direct repair by suturing the torn ends back together. This is usually done under local or general anesthesia.
- Ligament reconstruction: In cases where the ligament is completely ruptured or too damaged to be repaired directly, a ligament reconstruction is necessary. This involves using tissue from another part of the body or a donor graft to reconstruct the ligament. The new tissue is carefully positioned to restore the function and stability of the joint.
Common examples of ligament reconstruction in the hand include:
- Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) reconstruction: Commonly performed on athletes in baseball (e.g., pitchers) where the UCL in the thumb is torn.
- Thumb ligament repair: A surgical procedure to restore stability in the thumb’s base joint after a torn ligament.
Recovery:
- Ligament reconstruction typically requires a prolonged recovery period due to the complexity of the procedure and the need for proper healing.
- The hand will likely be immobilized in a cast or splint for 6–8 weeks, and physical therapy will be necessary to regain strength and motion after the immobilization period.
4. Joint realignment (Repositioning dislocated joints)
A dislocation occurs when the bones in a joint are displaced, often due to a sudden impact or fall. Dislocations of the fingers, thumb, or wrist are common in sports that involve high-impact actions or quick movements.
Procedure:
- Closed reduction: In some cases, a dislocated joint can be realigned manually by the surgeon without the need for an incision. This is called a closed reduction, and it typically involves gentle manipulation of the bones to reposition them into the correct alignment.
- Open reduction: If the dislocation is severe or associated with fractures, an open reduction may be necessary. This involves making an incision to expose the joint and realign the bones. Surgical instruments may be used to help reposition the bones accurately.
Once the bones are realigned, the surgeon will ensure the joint remains stable during the healing process by using external fixation (e.g., a splint) or, in more severe cases, internal fixation (e.g., screws or pins).
Recovery:
- After joint realignment, the joint will usually be immobilized for several weeks to allow the bones to heal in the correct position.
- Rehabilitation through physical therapy will be necessary to restore the range of motion and strength in the joint once healing is complete.
Key considerations
- Anesthesia: Most hand surgeries are performed under local or regional anesthesia, but for more complex surgeries, general anesthesia may be used.
- Risks: As with any surgery, there are risks involved, including infection, bleeding, nerve damage, or the failure of the procedure to fully restore function.
- Post-surgical care: After surgery, it’s essential to follow the surgeon’s instructions regarding wound care, activity restrictions, and when to return for follow-up visits.
How to prevent sports hand injuries?
Prevention is key to minimizing the risk of hand injuries in sports. Effective prevention strategies include:
- Warm-up & Stretching: A proper warm-up prepares muscles, ligaments, and joints for activity, reducing the risk of injuries. Stretching helps maintain flexibility and joint health.
- Proper equipment: Ensure you are using the appropriate protective gear such as wrist supports, gloves, or splints to minimize impact and stress on the hands.
- Strengthening exercises: Regular exercises to strengthen the hand, wrist, and forearm muscles help support the joints and reduce the likelihood of injuries.
- Correct technique: Using proper form during sports activities helps avoid unnecessary strain on the hand and wrist.
- Rest & Recovery: Adequate rest is essential to avoid overuse injuries. Pay attention to any signs of pain or fatigue, and give your body time to recover between intense activities.
What makes us the best hospital for sports hand injury treatment in Ahmedabad?
We are dedicated to providing the highest quality care for sports-related hand injuries. Here’s what sets us apart as the leading choice for treatment in Ahmedabad:
Expertise of Dr. Karn Maheshwari
He is a highly skilled hand & wrist surgeon specialized in treating sports related hand injuries. His specialized knowledge ensures that you receive the most effective treatment tailored to your individual needs.
Personalized treatment plans
We believe that no two patients are the same. Dr. Maheshwari tailors each treatment plan based on your specific symptoms, lifestyle, and preferences, ensuring you get the most effective and least invasive care possible.
Minimally invasive surgery
When surgery is necessary, we use the latest techniques to reduce scarring, shorten recovery times, and get you back to your daily activities faster.
Comprehensive physiotherapy
Our in-house physiotherapy team, led by Dr. Maheshwari, provides targeted rehabilitation exercises post-surgery to ensure optimal recovery and restore hand function as quickly as possible.
State-of-the-art facility
Our hospital is equipped with modern medical technologies, ensuring precise diagnostics and advanced treatment options for every patient.
Patient-centric care
From your first consultation to your follow-up care, our team is dedicated to providing a comfortable, compassionate experience. We prioritize open communication, answering all your questions and keeping you informed every step of the way.
Awards & Achievements
What our patients say about their sports hand injury treatment
- B-Wing 201 & 210, 2nd Floor, Shaligram Lakeview Commercial, Above Domino's, S.P. Ring Road, Nr. Vaishnodevi Circle (Vaishnodevi-Zundal Highway Service Road), Ahmedabad-382421
- Mon–Sat: 11:00 AM – 01:00 PM
06:00 PM – 08:00 PM - +91 75677 67701
- Sun: Closed
Emergency: 24/7 Available
FAQs about sports hand injury
We treat a wide range of sports-related hand injuries, including fractures, sprains, strains, tendon ruptures, ligament tears, dislocations, and overuse injuries. We provide both non-surgical and surgical treatment options tailored to each injury’s severity.
During the first visit, specialists will assess the injury through a thorough examination and may recommend diagnostic tests like X-rays or MRIs to determine the injury’s severity. Based on the results, the team will discuss treatment options and create a personalized recovery plan.
Not all severe hand injuries require surgery. Surgical treatment is recommended only if non-surgical methods do not provide adequate healing or if the injury is complex, such as fractures requiring realignment, tendon ruptures, or ligament tears. The specialists will guide patients in choosing the most appropriate treatment option.
In case of a sports hand injury outside of regular clinic hours, we offer emergency services to provide immediate care. Patients should contact the hospital for assistance and guidance on how to proceed.
To schedule an appointment, you can call our hospital directly or book online through our website. Our team will assist you with scheduling and provide any additional information you may need regarding your consultation.
Before your consultation, it is helpful to bring any medical records, previous imaging (such as X-rays or MRIs) related to your hand injury, and a list of any medications you are currently taking. If possible, note the activities or movements that worsen the pain or discomfort, as this will help in the diagnosis.
Yes, Krisha Hand Hospital accepts various insurance plans for sports hand injury treatments. Patients are encouraged to check with their insurance provider for coverage details regarding consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatments.
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury and the type of surgery performed. For example, tendon repair or joint reconstruction may take a few weeks to months for full recovery. Post-surgery rehabilitation, including physiotherapy, plays a vital role in regaining strength, mobility, and function. The medical team will provide detailed recovery instructions specific to the surgery.
Yes, Krisha Hand Hospital provides physiotherapy services as part of the comprehensive treatment for sports hand injuries. Physiotherapy includes exercises and treatments to improve mobility, strength, and function of the injured hand, helping to reduce pain and speed up recovery.
In many cases, non-surgical treatments like splinting, physical therapy, or corticosteroid injections may be administered on the same day as the consultation. However, surgical treatments will require a separate appointment to allow for proper preparation.
The wait time for surgery depends on factors such as the severity of the injury, available surgical slots, and the patient’s condition. During the consultation, the specialists will discuss the timeline and help schedule the surgery at a suitable time.
We offer a wide range of diagnostic tests for sports hand injuries, including X-rays, MRIs, ultrasound imaging, and sometimes CT scans. These tests help evaluate the injury’s severity, identify fractures, tendon tears, ligament damage, and guide treatment planning.
Before surgery, you may be advised to avoid smoking, alcohol, and certain medications like blood thinners, as they can interfere with the healing process. The surgical team will provide detailed instructions to follow in the days leading up to the procedure.
We follow stringent safety protocols, including pre-operative assessments, sterile environments, and experienced surgical teams. The hospital ensures continuous monitoring during and after surgery to minimize risks and promote a successful recovery.
Most surgeries for sports hand injuries are outpatient procedures, meaning you can typically go home the same day. However, if complications arise or for specific procedures, an overnight stay may be recommended for closer monitoring.
