How do I know if my hand or wrist is fractured?

Signs include immediate pain, swelling, bruising, deformity, inability to move the fingers or wrist, and tenderness over a specific bone. If you suspect a fracture, seek medical evaluation immediately.

Should I go to the ER or see a hand surgeon?

For severe injuries with visible deformity, open wounds, or loss of circulation, go to the ER first. For other hand fractures, seeing a hand surgeon directly can provide faster, specialized care without the ER wait.

How long does a hand fracture take to heal?

Most hand and wrist fractures heal in 4-6 weeks with proper immobilization. Complex fractures or those requiring surgery may take 8-12 weeks. Full strength and function may take several months to return.

Will I need surgery for a hand fracture?

Not all fractures require surgery. Many can be treated with splinting or casting. Surgery is typically needed for displaced fractures, unstable fractures, fractures involving joints, or those with multiple fragments.

When can I return to work after a hand fracture?

This depends on your job and the severity of the fracture. Light duty work may be possible within 1-2 weeks. Manual labor typically requires 6-12 weeks. Your hand surgeon will provide specific guidance based on your fracture and occupation.

Hand & Wrist Fractures: Expert Emergency Care

Did you break your hand or wrist? Fast, expert care is critical for proper healing and function. Dr. Jesse Dashe provides same-day fracture evaluation and treatment in San Leandro — no waiting in the ER or for weeks to see a specialist.

Do these symptoms fit you?

Severe pain after a fall, impact, or injury

Swelling, bruising, or deformity of hand or wrist

Unable to move fingers, hand, or wrist normally

Numbness or tingling in fingers

Bone visible through skin (open fracture)

When to see a surgeon

Immediately for any suspected fracture — time matters for healing

If you can't move your fingers normally after injury

If your hand or wrist looks deformed

If you have numbness or can't feel your fingers

What Dr. Dashe does differently

Same-day access — no waiting weeks when you have a fracture

Direct surgeon care — Dr. Dashe personally evaluate and treat every fracture

Outcome-focused — Dr. Dashe follow you until your hand is fully functional again

Treatment options

Non-surgical

Casting, splinting, or bracing for stable fractures that are properly aligned.

Surgical

Internal fixation with plates, screws, or pins for displaced or unstable fractures.

Recovery timeline

Bone healing typically takes 6–8 weeks

Therapy begins once bone healing allows

Full recovery of strength and function may take 3–6 months

What to bring

Any X-rays or imaging from ER or urgent care

Insurance card and medication list

Details about how the injury happened

Ready to Start Your Recovery?

Don't wait weeks to see a specialist.

Call today: (510) 297-0550 Request Appointment Online

Related Conditions: Learn about Tendon & Nerve Injuries, Carpal Tunnel, and De Quervain's.