From the Guidelines
Appropriate workplace restrictions for someone with a proximal fifth phalanx fracture should include avoiding heavy lifting, gripping, and repetitive hand movements for 4-6 weeks while the fracture heals, as simple immobilization is often sufficient for small, nonarticular, or minimally displaced fractures 1. When determining the specific restrictions, it's essential to consider the individual's job requirements and the potential impact of the fracture on their ability to perform their duties.
- Key restrictions may include:
- Avoiding heavy lifting or carrying objects
- Limiting gripping or grasping activities
- Minimizing repetitive hand movements
- Avoiding activities that cause pain or discomfort in the affected finger
- The injured finger should be buddy-taped to the adjacent ring finger for stability during healing, and the person should be allowed to take scheduled breaks to elevate the hand above heart level to reduce swelling.
- Pain management with acetaminophen (500-1000mg every 6 hours as needed) or NSAIDs like ibuprofen (400-600mg every 6-8 hours with food) may be necessary, as guided by the treating physician.
- As healing progresses, typically after 3-4 weeks, gradual return to more demanding hand activities can begin under the guidance of the treating physician or hand therapist, ensuring that the fracture has stabilized and the individual can perform their job duties without risking further injury or complications 1.
From the Research
Workplace Restrictions for Proximal Fifth Phalynx Fracture
To determine appropriate workplace restrictions for someone with a proximal fifth phalynx fracture, it's essential to consider the type of fracture, degree of displacement, and stability of the fracture reduction.
- The treatment approach can significantly impact the recovery process and the need for workplace restrictions.
- According to 2, conservative management with buddy taping and immediate mobilisation can be an effective treatment approach for base fractures of the fifth proximal phalanx, allowing for high overall satisfaction and minimal complications.
- The goal of proximal phalangeal fracture management is to allow for fracture healing to occur in acceptable alignment while maintaining gliding motion of the extensor and flexor tendons, as stated in 3.
- A systematic review of conservatively managed isolated extra-articular proximal phalanx finger fractures in adults found that non-operative approaches can be an alternative to surgery, with a high rate of union and satisfactory total active motion scores, as reported in 4.
Restrictions and Precautions
Considering the treatment approaches and goals, the following workplace restrictions and precautions may be appropriate:
- Avoiding heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous activities that may exacerbate the fracture or disrupt the healing process.
- Modifying job tasks to minimize stress and strain on the affected finger and hand.
- Using assistive devices or adaptive equipment to reduce the risk of further injury or complications.
- Regularly monitoring and reporting any changes in symptoms, pain, or functional ability to ensure timely adjustments to workplace restrictions and precautions.
- Collaborating with healthcare professionals to develop a personalized rehabilitation plan and gradually return to work, as supported by 2, 3, and 4.