Doctronic navigation menu Log In
Doctronic navigation menu
Contents
  • Conservative Care: When Casts Come First
  • Surgical Solutions: When Casts Aren't Enough
  • The Comeback Trail: Rehabilitation and Return to Activity
  • Special Considerations for Athletes

Healing Hamate Fractures: From Cast to Comeback

Healing Hamate Fractures: From Cast to Comeback

The Road to Recovery

Treating a hamate fracture isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. From conservative care to surgery, the path to healing depends on the specific injury and the patient's needs.
Contents
  • Conservative Care: When Casts Come First
  • Surgical Solutions: When Casts Aren't Enough
  • The Comeback Trail: Rehabilitation and Return to Activity
  • Special Considerations for Athletes

Conservative Care: When Casts Come First

For many hamate fractures, especially non-displaced ones, treatment starts with immobilization. A short arm cast that includes the ring and little fingers is typically used. The wrist is placed in slight flexion to reduce tension on the hamate hook. This cast stays on for 4-6 weeks, sometimes longer for hook fractures.

Surgical Solutions: When Casts Aren't Enough

Surgery may be necessary for displaced fractures, fracture-dislocations, or cases that don't improve with casting. For hook fractures, excision (removal) of the fractured piece is common, especially in athletes needing a quick return to play. Some surgeons may attempt to fix the fracture with small screws instead.
A hamate fracture is an injury to one of the carpal bones in the wrist, often treated with immobilization or surgery depending on the displacement of the fracture.

The Comeback Trail: Rehabilitation and Return to Activity

After the cast comes off, the real work begins. Patients typically start with gentle stretching exercises to regain mobility. Strengthening exercises follow as healing progresses. For those who've had surgery, return to full activity often takes 6-7 weeks, though some may need up to 3 months.

Special Considerations for Athletes

Athletes, especially in sports like baseball or golf, may opt for early surgical intervention to speed return to play. After surgery, they often use protective splinting during activities for several months. While most return to their previous level of competition, it's not guaranteed – about 15-20% may face challenges in returning to the same level of play.

FAQs

How long will I be in a cast?

Typically 4-6 weeks, but some hook fractures may need up to 12 weeks.

Will I need physical therapy?

Often yes, especially after prolonged immobilization or surgery.

Can I play sports with a cast?

It depends on the sport and your doctor's advice; some activities may be possible with protection.

How soon after surgery can I return to work?

It varies, but many can return to light duty within a few weeks.

Are there risks to removing the hook of the hamate?

Minimal; most patients regain full function, but discuss potential risks with your surgeon.

The Path Forward

With proper treatment and dedication to rehabilitation, most patients with hamate fractures can expect a full recovery.
Wondering about the best treatment plan for your hamate fracture? Consult with Doctronic to explore your options and optimize your recovery.
Additional References
  1. Whalen JL, et al. J Hand Surg Am 1992; 17:507.
  2. Bansal A, et al. J Hand Surg Am 2017; 42:803.
  3. Erickson BJ, et al. Am J Sports Med 2020; 48:3066.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.