How can you tell if it is a fracture or a sprain?!

How can you tell if it is a fracture or a sprain?

I Fealt like I broke my hand after fallin offmy bike Yesterday But it may have been just a bad sprain and my Mom doesn't want to go to the Hospital for just a sprain, so What are things to look for that would distinguish a sprain from a fracture without going to the doctor?

Fractures usually are accompanied by some bruising/discoloration along with some swelling. You may feel pain while moving your hand or fingers. You may feel a grinding sensation.

I would highly recommend visiting the doctor. Many county hospitals are obliged to treat you even if you don't have insurance.

I have to preface the rest of this answer by saying that you really should see a physician, and this advice doesn't substitute for legitimate medical advice from someone who has examined your hand. I

f you don't go to a doctor, you may want to splint your hand, in the meantime. A simple way to do this is to wrap your fingers around a clean tennis ball or other object bringing your fingers into a "C"-like position with your thumb partially extended. The wrist should be positioned so that it is in line with your forearm, and straight out. You may be able to pick up a semi-flexible splint from a drugstore and run this along the front of your arm, all the way up to the elbow. Make sure your hand is still in the "C" position after the splint is in place. Wrap the hand, splint, and forearm with an ace-type flexible bandage.

Again, nothing replaces having medical attention from a physician if you're injured. Keep in mind, if it is fractured and sets incorrectly, it could cause you problems for the rest of your life. See a doctor if you have the opportunity.