Injuries to the hands and fingers can be especially troublesome because we use our hands for so much. Can you imagine not being able to use one or both of your hands when you take a shower or use the restroom? Or, the possibility that you can’t even write your own name?
I help countless injured workers who have suffered an injury to their hands and/or fingers that leave them in a very tough situation. The majority of the information I have read online says that there are 27 bones in the human hand (www.wikipedia.com). Injuries (breaks and/or crushing injuries) to these bones can result in a loss of use in the finger or in the hand as a whole. It is very important to treat these injuries right away to prevent prolonged damage to the injured hand and/or finger.
I have taken the following information from www.wikipedia.com just to give you some further insight as to how hand and finger injuries can become more bothersome than just a broken bone. As always folks, this is provided as an informative tool only and is not meant to be medical advice.
“Trauma to the finger or the hand is quite common in society. In some particular cases, the entire finger may be subject to amputation. The majority of traumatic injuries are work-related. Today, skilled hand surgeons can sometimes reattach the finger or thumb using microsurgery. Sometimes, traumatic injuries may result in loss of skin, and plastic surgeons may place skin and muscle grafts.”
“Finger injuries are usually diagnosed with x-ray and can get to be considerably painful. The majority of finger injuries can be dealt with conservative care and splints. However, if the bone presents an abnormal angularity or if it is displaced, one may need surgery and pins to hold the bones in place.”
“Fractures of the fingers occur when the finger or hands hit a solid object. Fractures are most common at the base of the little finger (boxer’s fracture). Nerve injuries occur as a result of trauma, compression or over-stretching. Nerves send impulses to the brain about sensation and also play an important role in finger movement. When nerves are injured, one can lose ability to move fingers, lose sensation and develop a contracture. Any nerve injury of the hand can be disabling and results in loss of hand function. Thus it is vital to seek medical help as soon as possible after any hand injury. “
“Sprains result from forcing a joint to perform against its normal range of motion. Finger sprains occur when the ligaments which are attached to the bone are overstretched and this results in pain, swelling, and difficulty for moving the finger. Common examples of a sprain are jammed or twisted fingers. These injuries are common among ball players but can also occur in laborers and handy men. When finger sprains are not treated on time, prolonged disability can result.”
If you are dealing with serious hand injury as the result of a work injury or if you would like more information on the Virginia workers’ compensation system, order my book, “The Ultimate Guide to Workers’ Compensation in Virginia,” or call our office today (804) 755-7755.
~Author
Michele Lewane, Esq.
About the Author: Michele Lewane
The Injured Workers Law Firm is a Richmond, Virginia based firm solely focused on serving clients with workers' compensation claims in Virginia. If you have questions about your benefits or if you would like more information on the Virginia workers’ compensation system, order our book, “The Ultimate Guide to Workers’ Compensation in Virginia” , or call our office today (804) 755-7755.