Boxer's fracture involves fracture of which bone?

• A. Neck of the first metacarpal
• B. Neck of the fifth metacarpal
• C. Base of the fifth metacarpal
• D. Head of the fifth metacarpal

Answer: (C)

Boxer's fracture is a fracture through the neck of the fifth metacarpal, usually from a direct blow to a clenched fist. The bending force concentrates at that narrow region just distal to the metacarpal head, so the distal fragment often tilts toward the palm (volar angulation) and the knuckle of the little finger may appear depressed. Clinically you’d expect tenderness and swelling along the ulnar side of the hand, with the fifth knuckle often less prominent than the others due to this fracture pattern. Imaging confirms a transverse fracture at the metacarpal neck. Treatment typically involves immobilization in an ulnar gutter or cast with the hand in a functional position for several weeks, followed by gradual ROM. A fracture at the base of the fifth metacarpal would involve a different joint region and is not the typical pattern seen with Boxer's fracture.