Sports medicine stats: Metacarpal fractures and other fractures of the hand
Dr. David Geier is an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist in Charleston, South Carolina and Charlotte, North Carolina. He helps athletes and active people feel and perform their best, regardless of age, injuries and medical history. He has been featured in major media publications and shows over 2,500 times throughout his career.
Metacarpal and phalangeal fractures are among the most common skeletal injuries in the general population, accounting for 10% of all fractures and 1% of emergency department visits in the United States. Nearly half, 41%, of all injuries to the hand warranting an emergency room or urgent care facility visit involve a fracture to the metacarpal or phalanx. These injuries occur most commonly in young adult men and nearly a quarter, 22.4%, are sustained during athletic events.
Metacarpal fractures sustained from a direct blow are the most commonly occurring fracture (2 in 3) in the young male athlete population, especially those participating in contact sports such as football, lacrosse, or hockey. Fifty percent of all hand fractures occur during football events.
Through the stories of a dozen athletes whose injuries and recovery advanced the field (including Joan Benoit, Michael Jordan, Brandi Chastain, and Tommy John), Dr. Geier explains how sports medicine makes sports safer for the pros, amateurs, student-athletes, and weekend warriors alike.
Metacarpal and phalangeal fractures are among the most common skeletal injuries in the general population, accounting for 10% of all fractures and 1% of emergency department visits in the United States. Nearly half, 41%, of all injuries to the hand warranting an emergency room or urgent care facility visit involve a fracture to the metacarpal or phalanx. These injuries occur most commonly in young adult men and nearly a quarter, 22.4%, are sustained during athletic events.