Preparing for an appointment

You might first seek treatment for a broken hand in an emergency room or urgent care clinic. If the pieces of broken bone aren't lined up properly to allow healing with immobilization, you might be referred to a doctor specializing in orthopedic surgery.

What you can do

You may want to write a list that includes:

• A description of your symptoms and how, where and when the injury occurred
• Information about your and your family's medical histories
• All the medications and dietary supplements you take, including doses
• Questions you want to ask the doctor

For a broken hand, questions to ask your doctor include:

• What tests do I need?
• What's the best course of action?
• Will I need surgery?
• Will I need to wear a cast? If so, for how long?
• Will I need physical therapy when the cast comes off?
• Are there restrictions that I need to follow?
• Should I see a specialist?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor might ask:

• What is your occupation?
• Was your hand bent backward or forward when the impact occurred?
• Are you right-handed or left-handed?
• Where does it hurt, and do certain movements make it hurt more or less?
• Have you had previous hand injuries or surgery?