What is a boxer’s fracture?

Fact Checked

A boxer’s fracture involves damage in the hand bones that form the knuckles. The injury occurs in the metacarpal bones which link the ring finger or little finger to the wrist.

What are the signs of a boxer’s fracture?

The usual indications of a boxer’s fracture include the following:

  • Pain or soreness on a specific site on the hand
  • A popping or snapping sensation can be felt when the bone is damaged
  • Discomfort during movement of the hand or fingers
  • Discoloration or bruising around the site of injury along with swelling
    boxer’s fracture
    Pain or soreness on a specific site on the hand.
  • Deformity of the affected hand along with abnormal movement of the bone fragments.
  • Pain is produced if the affected bone is pressed by the doctor. Discomfort is also produced by holding the finger linked to the metacarpal bone and pushed inwards towards the broken bone.
  • When a fist is created using the affected hand, the doctor will notice evident misalignment of the affected finger.

When to consult a doctor?

Once the individual sustained an injury and a boxer’s fracture is likely, a doctor must be seen as soon as possible. If a doctor is not available, bring the individual to the nearest emergency department for assessment.

Other instances in which a doctor must be seen include:

  • In case the affected hand or arm has been under a splint or cast but develops intensifying pain, tingling or numbness in the fingers.
  • Any signs of infection from a cut or sutured wound
  • Any form of hand injury with indications suggesting a fracture

Disclaimer / More Information

The information posted on this page on a boxer’s fracture is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn how the injury is managed, register for first aid training at one of our training centers located throughout Canada. The training centers are in Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, Kelowna, Saskatoon, Victoria, Surrey, Mississauga, Winnipeg, Red Deer, Toronto, Ottawa and Halifax.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The information posted on this page is for educational purposes only.
If you need medical advice or help with a diagnosis contact a medical professional

  • All firstaidcprmississauga.ca content is reviewed by a medical professional and / sourced to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.

  • We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable websites, academic research institutions and medical articles.

  • If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please contact us through our contact us page.