Hand trauma and injuries are usually caused by accidents or a result of repetitive use.
Common causes of hand trauma and injury include:
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Impact during recreational activities or sports. These can range from a simple sprained finger from a sudden twist, to knuckle fractures from a hard knock, or mallet finger from a ball hitting the tip of your fingers.
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Accidents such as mishaps in the kitchen which can lead to cuts and burns, or the impact from breaking a fall with your hands.
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Wear and tear from ageing or overuse, which could lead to arthritis as well as strains and sprains from heavy lifting or poor technique.
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Use of certain tools, equipment or heavy machinery involving high pressure, extreme temperatures or moving parts.
Hand injuries can happen to anyone, at any time and when you least expect it.
Risk factors of hand injury
The risk of finger, hand, or wrist injury is higher in contact sports, such as wrestling, football, and in high-speed sports, such as biking and skateboarding. Sports that use hand equipment such as hockey sticks or racquets also increase the risk of injury.
In children, most finger, hand, or wrist injuries occur during sports or play or from accidental falls. Older adults are at higher risk for injuries and fractures because they lose muscle mass and bone strength as they age. They also have more problems with vision and balance, which increases their risk of accidental injury.
Hand injuries can happen to anyone, at any time and when you least expect it. You can reduce your risk and help prevent injuries by being careful.
Preventing hand injury
- Being attentive while working or performing daily tasks.
- Using the correct technique while cutting, gripping and lifting.
- Taking regular breaks to relieve pressure on your hands.
- Using protective gear while playing sports or using heavy equipment, including gloves and wrist guards.
- Stretching and warming up before playing sports can help prevent injuries.