Most physicians will determine readiness to return to play based on the return of full strength, pain-free full range of motion and the ability to protect the wrist during activity. This takes varying amounts of time, but is usually about 6-8 weeks.

With proper treatment, broken fingers will typically heal within a few weeks and broken hands within one to two months, although it may take several months to make a complete recovery from a severely broken hand.

In the case of metacarpal fractures, NBA athletes often return to action within three to six weeks.

Most hand metacarpal fractures in high school aged athletes can be treated in a cast, although in some instances surgery may be needed. Cast treatment will typically allow unrestricted return to play in about 4 weeks for noncontact sports and about 6 weeks for contact sports.

How is it treated, and how long does it take to heal? Metacarpal fractures usually take about six to eight weeks to heal. You’ll probably have to wear a splint as part of your treatment. It covers part of your fingers and both sides of your hand and wrist, and you’ll most likely wear it for around three weeks.

For this finger injury, no surgery or cast is required. Basketball will not be possible for at least 2-3 weeks.

A broken finger or thumb usually heals within 2 to 8 weeks, but it can take longer. It may be 3 to 4 months before full strength returns to your hand. Once it’s healed, use your finger or thumb as normal.

Jammed Fingers It is common to jam a finger while playing basketball. Soak the hand in cold water for 20 minutes. You can protect the jammed finger by using medical tape to tape it to the next finger. This is called “buddy taping.”