Is there a specific way to tell if I have...

[csiegel06]

...fractured a bone in my hand? Okay, so a little over 3 weeks ago I was riding a mountain bike and took a fall. I stuck out both my hands to break my fall, and ended up spraining my left wrist and breaking my left elbow. At the time, the palm of my right hand was a little swollen and touch sensitive, but I had assumed it was just bruised and told the doctor I didn't think it needed an X-ray. I have broken several bones before and it wasn't nearly as painful. Well, 3 weeks later my palm is still just as sensitive, even though my broken elbow has healed almost completely (It was a pretty minor fracture). The area where it is sensitive is right at the base of my hand or the "heel" of my palm. Is it possible that I fractured a bone, or is it more likely just a deep bruise? If it was fractured, how do they treat it? (Please don't just say "Get an X-Ray." I am just asking this question because I don't want to waste my time going in to the doctor's office if it is just a minor thing) Thanks.

[niceguy]

normally it will turn black and blue around a break.. get it x-rayed

[jawn]

Well, unfortunately, the only way to be sure whether or not you have a fracture is to get an x-ray. Three weeks is a long time to have a "deep bruise." Even if it isn't a fracture, you may have damaged the cartilage or a ligament. I don't think you'll get any easy internet answers. Get thee to a doctor's office.

[Maxi]

sorry, mam i am bothering u but....only 2 good solutions i know r ...either go to a doctor for check upor bump ur hand n get a major enjury ...so that u wont have to waste ur time for minor one...more or less u have to see doctor.be cool...:P

[Tangerine]

I fractured a bone in my wrist, and I am telling you IT HURT LIKE HELL - it's not just going to be sensitive or a bit painful - it will hurt. Mine was only a hairline fracture and my wrist ballooned up but wasn't really bruised. More that pale yellow color. As for your elbow, it also I assume was splinted somehow, correct? You have probably moved your hand and not really allowed it to heal. Even if it was sprained or a more minor injury, you still need to allow it time to rest and heal. Try immobilizing it and putting it above your head so the blood doesn't pool. That's what they had me do with my wrist. Best of luck!