From Playground to Practice: Four Ways to Tell If Your Child’s Hand Injury Needs More Than Ice

Kids are experts at getting bumps and bruises, especially on the playground or participating in sports. Most of the time, a little ice and rest are all they need. However, sometimes what appears to be a simple injury may need a closer look from a hand specialist.

Hand specialists are orthopedic doctors with advanced training in the bones, muscles, tendons, and nerves of the hand, wrist, and forearm. They diagnose and treat everything from minor sprains to growth plate injuries and fractures that affect how a child’s hand develops and functions as they grow. Here are four signs your child may need to be seen by a hand specialist:

Persistent pain or swelling
If pain, swelling, or bruising does not improve after a few days or gets worse, it may indicate a fracture or soft tissue injury.

Limited movement
If your child cannot fully bend or straighten a finger, thumb, or wrist after an injury, it could be more than a simple sprain.

Visible change or bump
A crooked finger, noticeable lump, or bump on the hand or wrist might be a cyst, fracture, or growth that needs evaluation.

Pain from repetitive activities
For children who play sports or instruments regularly, pain that keeps returning might indicate overuse or tendon irritation.

Even small hands are complex. Getting expert care early can help ensure your child’s hand heals properly and continues to grow strong.

If you are ever unsure, it is always good to have your child checked.

Talk with your pediatrician or make an appointment with Dr. Zina Model, hand and upper extremity orthopedic surgeon with Emerson Health.