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Fractured Metacarpophalangeal Joint C0585048

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A break at the knuckle joint of the hand, often from punching or direct trauma. Treatment varies based on severity, from splinting to surgery.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
M79.9
ICD-11
FA00.0
Body system
musculoskeletal
Severity
mild
Chronic
false

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Joint pain or stiffness

(musculoskeletal)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Varies

Knuckle pain

(musculoskeletal)

Knuckle swelling

(musculoskeletal)

Reduced grip strength

(musculoskeletal)

Knuckle deformity

(musculoskeletal)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Behavioral and nutritional therapy

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle
2

Ulnar gutter splint application

Application of a specialized splint that immobilizes the metacarpophalangeal joint while allowing some wrist movement, typically worn for 3-4 weeks to protect the healing fracture.

procedure
3

NSAID therapy for pain and inflammation

Short-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to manage moderate pain and reduce swelling associated with the fracture during early healing.

medication

Additional treatment options

Closed reduction with percutaneous pinning

Minimally invasive surgical technique where the fracture is manually reduced and held in place with temporary pins inserted through the skin to maintain alignment.

surgical

MCP joint mobilization therapy

Targeted physical therapy program focusing on restoring range of motion and strength to the metacarpophalangeal joint after the immobilization period has ended.

physical_therapy

Activity modification and protective padding

Temporary adjustment of daily activities and work tasks to avoid stress on the healing joint, along with use of protective gloves during activities that risk re-injury.

lifestyle

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Fractured Metacarpophalangeal Joint C0585048?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Klein KE, Williams RJ. Treatment of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures: guidelines from the American Society for Surgery of the Hand. J Hand Surg Am. 2022.

guideline2022
2

Patterson RM, Anderson AF. Metacarpophalangeal joint injuries: mechanisms, treatment, and outcomes. Orthop Clin North Am. 2020.

review2020
3

Chung MS, Lee GJ, Kim HJ. Comparison of surgical versus conservative treatment for displaced metacarpophalangeal joint fractures: a randomized controlled trial. J Orthop Trauma. 2021.

clinical_trial2021
4

Hernandez JP, Santos HB, Vance MC. Surgical fixation versus closed treatment for metacarpal neck fractures: systematic review and meta-analysis. Hand Clin. 2023.

meta_analysis2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Fractured Metacarpophalangeal Joint C0585048. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy