Judo therapy for trauma treatment

1 Treatment of metacarpal neck fractures

Boxer’s Fracture: A Judo Therapist’s Guide to Hand Healing

A Boxer’s Fracture is a break in the neck of the fifth metacarpal—the bone leading to your pinky finger. It's a common injury in Judo and other martial arts, often caused by a misjudged punch, bad fall (ukemi), or even an opponent stepping on the hand.

Spot the Signs

Swelling and sharp pain over the knuckle
Flattened knuckle when making a fist
Trouble moving or gripping
Fingers may overlap when flexing

Even if the bone isn’t obviously displaced, pain when pressing along the metacarpal or gripping strongly is a red flag. Don’t ignore it—it could get worse without proper care.

How to Treat It

Step 1: Manual Realignment (Reduction)
If the bone is angled or misaligned, Judo therapists use precise hands-on techniques:

Flex the MP joint to 90°
Apply gentle traction
Push the bone back into place using the palm side
Repeat 3–5 times, checking for improvement

Step 2: Immobilization with Splint
Once aligned, stabilize with a molded aluminum splint:

Wrist: Slightly extended (20°)
MP joints: Flexed (40–70°)
PIP & DIP joints: Slightly flexed
Add buddy taping to the neighboring finger for extra support

Step 3: Recovery Plan

Keep the splint on for 5–6 weeks
Monitor for swelling, numbness, or tightness
Begin gentle rehab after healing to restore motion and grip strength

Why This Matters in Judo Therapy

This injury might look small, but if ignored, it can cause long-term problems like grip weakness or finger deformity. Judo therapists are trained to catch even subtle signs and act early—with techniques that don’t rely on brute force.

The goal? Restore strength, prevent deformity, and get athletes back on the mat—fast and safely.

2 Treatment for dislocation of the thumb

Thumb MP Joint Dislocation: What You Need to Know

A thumb MP (metacarpophalangeal) joint dislocation is when the joint at the base of the thumb shifts out of place, usually from a hard fall, awkward grip, or forceful bend—common in Judo but also possible in everyday life.

Why It Happens

Hyperextension injuries from falling or gripping too hard
Ligament damage, especially to the volar plate and collateral ligaments
High-risk activities like martial arts, sports, or heavy lifting

Symptoms to Watch For

A bent, Z-shaped thumb
Severe pain and swelling at the base of the thumb
Inability to move or bend the thumb normally
A visible gap or misalignment in the joint
A clicking or grinding feeling during movement

Why Dorsal Dislocations Are Most Common

Most dislocations occur when the thumb is bent backward, tearing the volar plate and pushing the joint out of place. This is called a dorsal dislocation, and it often leads to a "locked" thumb that can’t be moved back into place without help.

Reduction Technique (How to Fix It)

Unlike other joints, traction should be avoided. Instead:

Gently hyperextend the joint to free trapped tissues
Press on the base of the thumb to realign the bones
Slowly flex the joint back into place
Confirm stability by checking thumb movement

Immobilization After Reduction

Use a molded aluminum splint to keep the thumb slightly flexed (20–30°)
Wrap with a Bakusui-tai bandage for secure support
Suspend the arm with a triangular bandage to prevent swelling and scar tissue buildup
Keep immobilized for 2–3 weeks, with regular check-ups

Rehabilitation Steps

Early Mobility: Gentle movements after splint removal
Strength Training: Grip balls, resistance bands, pinch exercises
Proprioception: Grip control and joint awareness drills
Return to Judo: Gradual Gi gripping, then full practice

Recovery Timeline

Weeks 1–3: Immobilization
Weeks 3–4: Start movement and light strengthening
Weeks 5–6: Progressive training
Week 6+: Full return to sports

With proper care and training, full recovery is achievable. Early treatment and thoughtful rehab are key to keeping your thumb strong, stable, and competition-ready.

How was our online Judo Therapy trial lecture?

In our online course, you can learn not only Judo therapy but also Japanese traditions and cultures.

The lectures are arranged so that not only those who are already active as medical professionals, but also those without medical experience can enjoy learning Judo therapy.

If you are interested in our online course, please apply for enrollment and take classes.

We look forward to seeing you again!

BASIC COURSE