Hand Injuries
Hand injuries include damage to the skin, tendons, nerves, blood vessels or bones of the hand. Prompt, specialist care is important to preserve hand function.
Causes & risk factors
- Cuts and lacerations
- Crush injuries or machinery accidents
- Fractures and dislocations
- Tendon or nerve injuries
- Burns to the hand
Common symptoms
- Pain and swelling in the hand
- Bleeding or an open wound
- Inability to move a finger or the hand
- Numbness or tingling
- Deformity of a finger or the hand
Tests & diagnosis
- X-ray
- Clinical examination of movement and sensation
- Nerve conduction study
- MRI
Treatment & management
- Cleaning and closing wounds
- Repairing tendons, nerves or blood vessels
- Setting or fixing fractures
- Splinting to protect and rest the hand
- Hand physiotherapy to restore function
- Pain control and infection prevention
When to see a doctor urgently
- A deep cut, crush injury or amputation (seek emergency care)
- Inability to move a finger or the hand
- Numbness or a cold, pale finger
- Heavy bleeding or an open fracture
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about hand injuries. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Why do hand injuries need specialist care?
The hand has many delicate structures packed closely together. Careful, prompt treatment gives the best chance of restoring movement and sensation.
Can a cut tendon in the hand heal on its own?
A completely cut tendon usually needs surgical repair to restore movement, followed by hand therapy. Prompt assessment gives the best result.
Explore more
MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.