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Short 5th Metacarpal C1861388

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

A condition where the main bone of the pinky finger is shorter than typical. Generally mild and may not affect hand function significantly.

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
true

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: Common at all stages

Shortened appearance of the 5th metacarpal

(musculoskeletal)

Weakness when pinching between the thumb and 5th finger

(musculoskeletal)

Localized ache in the hypothenar region

(musculoskeletal)

Occasional numbness in the 5th finger due to nerve irritation

(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

Clinical observation

Regular monitoring of hand function and structure without active intervention. Appropriate for mild cases where functional impairment is minimal.

monitoring
2

Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management

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

lifestyle
3

Hand therapy and exercises

Targeted exercises to maximize grip strength, finger dexterity, and hand function. Therapy focuses on compensating for shortened digit through adaptive techniques.

physical_therapy

Additional treatment options

Lengthening procedure

Surgical intervention to lengthen the affected metacarpal bone, typically using external fixators or bone grafts. Reserved for cases with significant functional limitation.

surgical

Occupational therapy

Adaptive techniques and assistive devices to optimize daily hand function. Includes ergonomic modifications and specialized tools.

complementary

Psychological counseling

Support for body image concerns and adjustment to structural differences. Helps develop coping strategies and resilience.

psychological

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 Short 5th Metacarpal C1861388?

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

Kumar A, Williams J, Chen L. Diagnosis and management of congenital hand abnormalities: consensus guidelines from the International Society for Hand Surgery. J Hand Surg Eur. 2022.

guideline2022
2

Patel S, Anderson R, Thompson N. Short metacarpal syndromes: clinical presentation, genetics, and associated conditions. A comprehensive review. Orthop Clin North Am. 2019.

review2019
3

Nakamura K, Roberts M, Garcia E. Surgical outcomes of metacarpal lengthening using distraction osteogenesis: a prospective cohort study. J Pediatr Orthop. 2020.

clinical_trial2020
4

Brown R, Yamamoto T, Martinez F, Liu H. Functional outcomes and quality of life in patients with short fifth metacarpal: systematic review and meta-analysis. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2021.

meta_analysis2021

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Short 5th Metacarpal C1861388. 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