What is the boxer fracture?

Boxer's fracture also known as a metacarpophalangeal fracture, is a break of one or more of the bones at the base of your fingers near the knuckles. It is most often the fifth metacarpal, which is on the outside (pinky) side of your hand. This is the most commonly fractured hand bone.

This fracture often happens when you punch or strike a surface with your closed hand. This type of injury is so common that it’s been given the name “boxer’s fracture” even though boxers don’t have a monopoly on this injury.

Boxer’s fractures can also happen due to falls, car accidents and sports injuries, such as football or basketball.

In most cases, a boxer’s fracture will heal on its own within 4 to 6 weeks. More severe fractures may require up to 12 weeks to fully heal.

Treatment can include splinting the entire finger, taping it to an adjacent finger or wearing a special glove. In some cases, surgery may be needed to insert pins or screws to hold the broken pieces in place.

Signs and symptoms of a boxer’s fracture include:

- Pain in your finger or hand at the base of your knuckle(s).

- Swelling at the base of your knuckle.

- Bruising on your finger or hand at the base of your knuckle.

- Difficulty moving your finger.

- Tenderness to the touch in the area of the fracture.