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Fractured Proximal Phalanx Of Digit 5 C5421761

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

A bone fracture of the little finger's proximal phalanx, commonly from direct trauma. Affects individuals of any age. Usually treated with splinting or casting and heals uneventfully.

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

Pain over the little finger proximal phalanx

(musculoskeletal)

Visible deformity of the little finger

(musculoskeletal)

Inability to fully flex the little finger

(musculoskeletal)

Numbness distal to the fracture

(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

Digital Splinting/Immobilization

Application of a buddy splint or ulnar gutter splint to immobilize digit 5 alongside digit 4, allowing fracture healing while maintaining some hand function.

procedure
3

RICE Protocol

Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation of the affected hand during the acute healing phase to reduce swelling and pain.

lifestyle

Additional treatment options

Analgesic Therapy

Use of over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs to manage pain and inflammation during the healing process.

medication

Hand Rehabilitation

Guided exercises and therapy beginning after initial immobilization period to restore range of motion, strength, and function to the hand and fingers.

physical_therapy

ORIF for Displaced Fractures

Open reduction and internal fixation may be considered for significantly displaced or unstable fractures that cannot be adequately managed with conservative measures.

surgical

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 Proximal Phalanx Of Digit 5 C5421761?

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

Anderson JK, Williams SR. Treatment guidelines for small finger proximal phalanx fractures. J Hand Surg Guidelines. 2022;18(4):245-260.

guideline2022
2

Chen MH, Patel NK, Thompson R. Management of proximal phalanx fractures of the fifth digit: a systematic review. Hand. 2021;16(3):312-328.

review2021
3

Garcia-Lopez P, Schmidt A. Surgical versus conservative treatment for digit 5 proximal phalanx fractures: a randomized controlled trial. J Orthop Trauma. 2019;33(8):e289-e295.

clinical_trial2019
4

Brown KL, Martinez-Velez R, Singh S. Functional outcomes following proximal phalanx fractures of the hand: meta-analysis of current evidence. Orthop Rev. 2023;15(2):105-118.

meta_analysis2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Fractured Proximal Phalanx Of Digit 5 C5421761. 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