Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
How Do I Relieve Swelling And Pain In My Hand After Injury?
Question: I banged the back of my hand while trying to start a leaf blower. The hand smacked very hard into the shed behind me and immediately caused severe pain and the swelling began immediately. I applied ice and elevation and it is still just as swollen and hurts terrify to the touch. Although I can move my pointer and middle finger, it is painful and range of motion is not normal. There is no actual bruising at this point, just a terrible lump with very tight skin. Is it possible that it is broken or will this continue to just go away on its own. Ibuprofen has done very little to relieve the discomfort and sleep was very uncomfortable.
Hi XXXXXXX
Thanks for posting a detailed query.
Any injury will present with swelling, pain and redness.This is an inflammatory reaction which is meant to subside after a week or two .Analgesics like IBUPROFEN will most often do the job.
In your case, it seems that the injury is quite significant as there is difficulty in range of movements as well as the pain is not coming down with NSAID group of analgesics.The hand is a very sensitive area and vulnerable for fractures, lacerations and soft tissue injuries and infections.
Without a clinical examination, it would be very difficult to judge the severity of the injury. An examination by a primary physician with an x XXXXXXX is warranted. THis helps to rule out any major issues.
Meanwhile continue the ice pack wraps thrice a day for 5-10 minutes each time. Ice may help in reducing the pain. Continue Ibuprofen.Restrict the range of motions of your hand.
If it is just a soft tissue injury, then it may take a week to heal , if there is a fracture, it will take time depending on the type of fracture, Regular follow ups may be needed.
Hope this answers your query.I am available for follow ups as well.
Thanks for posting a detailed query.
Any injury will present with swelling, pain and redness.This is an inflammatory reaction which is meant to subside after a week or two .Analgesics like IBUPROFEN will most often do the job.
In your case, it seems that the injury is quite significant as there is difficulty in range of movements as well as the pain is not coming down with NSAID group of analgesics.The hand is a very sensitive area and vulnerable for fractures, lacerations and soft tissue injuries and infections.
Without a clinical examination, it would be very difficult to judge the severity of the injury. An examination by a primary physician with an x XXXXXXX is warranted. THis helps to rule out any major issues.
Meanwhile continue the ice pack wraps thrice a day for 5-10 minutes each time. Ice may help in reducing the pain. Continue Ibuprofen.Restrict the range of motions of your hand.
If it is just a soft tissue injury, then it may take a week to heal , if there is a fracture, it will take time depending on the type of fracture, Regular follow ups may be needed.
Hope this answers your query.I am available for follow ups as well.
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
