What are the signs of a broken pinky toe. How does it differ from other toe injuries. What treatment options are available for a broken pinky toe. When should you seek medical attention for toe pain.

Understanding Pinky Toe Fractures: Causes and Symptoms

A broken pinky toe, also known as a fractured fifth toe, is a common injury that can occur due to various reasons. The most frequent cause is a direct impact or trauma to the toe, such as stubbing it against a hard surface or dropping a heavy object on it. The pinky toe’s small size and position make it particularly vulnerable to injury.

What are the telltale signs of a broken pinky toe? Look out for these symptoms:

• A distinct snapping, grinding, or popping sound at the moment of impact
• Immediate pain at the site of injury
• Visible deformity or crookedness of the toe
• Redness, swelling, and bruising around the affected area
• Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the injured foot

Is it possible to distinguish between a broken toe and a less severe injury? While a definitive diagnosis often requires medical imaging, the severity of symptoms can provide clues. A fracture typically causes more intense pain and pronounced swelling compared to a minor injury.

Differentiating Pinky Toe Fractures from Other Common Toe Injuries

While a broken pinky toe is a frequent occurrence, it’s not the only condition that can cause pain and swelling in the smallest toe. Understanding the differences between various toe injuries can help determine the appropriate course of action.

Stress Fractures

How do stress fractures differ from traumatic fractures? Unlike sudden breaks, stress fractures develop gradually due to repetitive force or overuse. They present as small cracks or severe bruising within the bone.

Key symptoms of a stress fracture include:

• Pain that worsens during activity but subsides with rest
• Tenderness when touching the affected area
• Swelling without significant bruising

Sprains

What exactly is a toe sprain? A sprain occurs when the ligaments connecting the toe bones are stretched or torn. The severity of a sprain is classified into three grades:

1. Grade I: Mild overstretching of ligaments with minimal loss of function
2. Grade II: Partial ligament tear with moderate pain and difficulty bearing weight
3. Grade III: Complete ligament tear resulting in severe pain and loss of function

Dislocations

How does a toe dislocation manifest? A dislocation involves the complete separation of bones in a joint, causing the toe to move out of its normal position. Symptoms often include severe pain, visible deformity, and difficulty moving the toe.

Exploring Less Common Causes of Pinky Toe Pain

Beyond fractures, sprains, and dislocations, several other conditions can lead to discomfort in the pinky toe. Understanding these ailments can help in proper diagnosis and treatment.

Bunions (Tailor’s Bunion)

What is a tailor’s bunion? Also known as a bunionette, this condition involves a painful, bony bump on the outer edge of the pinky toe joint. It’s called a tailor’s bunion due to its historical prevalence among tailors who sat cross-legged for extended periods.

Symptoms of a tailor’s bunion include:

• A visible bump on the outside of the pinky toe
• Pain and tenderness at the site
• Redness and inflammation
• Development of calluses or corns on the bump

Corns

Why do corns form on toes? Corns are hardened, thickened areas of skin that develop as a protective response to friction or pressure. They commonly appear on the tops and sides of toes, including the pinky toe.

Identifying features of corns include:

• A hardened patch of skin
• Potential open sores between toes
• Pain when wearing shoes

Treatment Options for Broken Pinky Toes and Related Injuries

How should you care for a broken pinky toe? The treatment approach depends on the severity of the fracture and associated symptoms. In many cases, conservative management at home can be sufficient.

Home Care for Minor Fractures

For less severe breaks, the following measures can promote healing:

• Rest: Avoid putting weight on the injured foot
• Ice: Apply cold packs to reduce swelling and pain
• “Buddy taping”: Secure the injured toe to its neighboring toe for support
• Elevation: Keep the foot raised to minimize swelling
• Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate discomfort

Medical Interventions for Severe Fractures

When might professional medical care be necessary? Seek medical attention if you experience severe pain, significant swelling, or an open wound. A healthcare provider may recommend:

• X-rays to confirm the diagnosis and assess the fracture’s severity
• Proper alignment of the broken bone
• Application of a cast or walking boot for more serious fractures
• Prescription pain medication if over-the-counter options are insufficient
• In rare cases, surgery may be required for complex fractures

Managing Other Toe Injuries: From Sprains to Bunions

How do treatment approaches differ for various toe conditions? While some general principles apply across different injuries, each condition may require specific interventions.

Treating Sprains and Stress Fractures

The RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) forms the cornerstone of treatment for both sprains and stress fractures. Additional measures may include:

• Use of crutches or a walking boot to reduce weight-bearing
• Gradual return to activity as guided by a healthcare professional
• Physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility

Addressing Bunions and Corns

Conservative treatments for bunions and corns often focus on relieving pressure and reducing friction. Options include:

• Wearing wider, more comfortable shoes
• Using protective pads or inserts
• Applying moisturizer to soften corns
• Carefully trimming corns (best done by a professional)

In severe cases of bunions, surgical intervention may be considered to realign the toe joint.

Prevention Strategies: Safeguarding Your Pinky Toe

Can you reduce the risk of pinky toe injuries? While accidents can happen, several preventive measures can help protect your toes:

• Wear properly fitting shoes with adequate toe room
• Use protective footwear in high-risk environments
• Practice good foot hygiene to prevent infections
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your feet
• Strengthen foot muscles through exercises
• Be mindful of your surroundings to avoid toe stubbing

When to Seek Medical Attention for Toe Injuries

How can you determine if professional medical care is necessary? While many toe injuries can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention:

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with home treatment
• Significant swelling, redness, or bruising
• Open wounds or signs of infection
• Inability to bear weight on the affected foot
• Visible deformity or misalignment of the toe
• Numbness or tingling in the toe
• Fever accompanying toe pain

Remember, early intervention can prevent complications and ensure proper healing. If you’re unsure about the severity of your toe injury, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Long-Term Outlook: Recovery and Potential Complications

What can you expect during the healing process of a broken pinky toe? The recovery timeline varies depending on the severity of the fracture, but most uncomplicated breaks heal within 4-6 weeks. During this period, it’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and avoid activities that could re-injure the toe.

Are there potential long-term effects of a broken pinky toe? While most fractures heal without issue, some possible complications include:

• Chronic pain or stiffness in the affected toe
• Arthritis developing in the injured joint
• Slight deformity if the bone doesn’t align perfectly
• Increased susceptibility to future injuries

How can you promote optimal healing and prevent complications? Consider these tips:

• Follow your treatment plan diligently
• Gradually increase activity levels as advised by your healthcare provider
• Perform recommended exercises to maintain flexibility and strength
• Use proper footwear and protective measures when returning to sports or high-impact activities
• Monitor the healing process and report any concerns to your healthcare provider

By understanding the nature of pinky toe fractures and related injuries, you can better navigate the treatment process and take steps to protect your foot health. Remember, while a broken pinky toe may seem minor, proper care is essential to ensure complete recovery and prevent future complications.

What you should know about a broken pinky toe

Article Featured on MedicalNewsToday

A broken pinky toe is a fracture of the smallest toe. The term “broken toe” usually describes a traumatic fracture, which can occur due to a direct blow or impact, such as stubbing the toe or dropping something on it. The pinky toe is a commonly broken toe, and the fracture usually occurs at its base.

This article looks at the symptoms of a broken small toe, along with some other problems that can cause pain and swelling in the area. It also examines the treatment and management options for this injury.

Symptoms of a broken pinky toe

The most common symptoms of a broken pinky toe include:

• a snapping, grinding, or popping noise at the time of the break
• pain at the place of impact at the time the fracture occurs
• the toe appearing to be crooked
• redness, bruising, and swelling

If there is an open wound, a person should seek immediate medical attention to prevent infection.

Other causes of pain and swelling

Other than a broken pinky toe, there are many reasons a person might have pain or swelling in their smallest toe. People can treat most of these causes at home. However, if home remedies do not seem to be working, it is important to see a doctor, as the issue could turn out to be something more serious.

The following sections outline some other causes of pain and swelling in the pinky toe in more detail.

Stress fracture

A stress fracture, or a hairline fracture, is a small crack or severe bruising within a bone. It is slightly different from a traumatic fracture, as it usually occurs due to overuse and repetitive activity.

Symptoms

• pain during or after performing normal activities
• pain that goes away when resting but returns when standing or during activity
• painful to the touch
• swelling but no bruising

Treatment

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), the most important treatment for a stress fracture is rest.

Advising that it takes up to 8 weeks for most fractures to heal, the AAOS warn against resuming the activity that caused the stress fracture to occur too quickly. They warn that this could lead to long-term problems. As well as resting, using shoe inserts or braces can help stress fractures heal.

Sprains

A sprain occurs when there is damage to a ligament. Ligaments are the bands of tough, elastic connective tissue that connect the bones in the toes to each other.

Symptoms

• pain
• swelling
• difficulty walking
• tender to the touch

The AAOS categorize sprains into three grades:

• Grade I: This is characterized by overstretched ligaments, a minimal loss of function, and mild pain.
• Grade II: This is characterized by a partially torn ligament, moderate pain, and difficulty putting weight on the toe.
• Grade III: This is characterized by a complete tear of the ligament, severe pain, a total loss of function, and an inability to bear weight.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of the sprain but could include:

• resting the toe
• icing the toe
• wearing a compression sock
• using crutches to aid walking
• taking pain relief medication
• using a walking boot, which is a stiff boot that protects the toe as it heals

Dislocation

A dislocation is a complete separation of the bones in a joint. The bones then move out of their normal position.

Symptoms

• severe pain
• deformity or displacement of the toe
• swelling and bruising
• numbness or tingling
• difficulty moving the toe

Treatment

• “buddy” taping it to an adjacent toe
• using a splint
• wearing a cast
• trying a walking boot

Bunion

A bunion is a painful, bony bump on the toe joint. A bunion on the pinky toe is called a tailor’s bunion. Historically, this name comes from the tailors who sat cross-legged all day, with the outside edge of their feet rubbing on hard surfaces.

Symptoms

• a visible bump on the outside of the pinky toe
• pain and tenderness at the site of the bump
• redness and inflammation
• a callus or corn on the bump

Treatment

• making shoe modifications, such as wearing wider-fitting footwear
• using bunionette pads
• taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen

In some cases, corticosteroid injections can help treat the inflamed tissue around the joint. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases.

Corns

Corns are hard, thickened areas of skin that form as a result of friction or pressure. Corns are the foot’s natural defense to help protect the skin underneath them. They are a response to bone pressure against the skin.

Corns may develop on the tops and sides of the toes and on the balls of the feet.

Symptoms

• a hardened patch of skin
• open sores between the toes
• pain when wearing shoes

Treatment

• shaving the corn, but only when a health professional carries it out
• soaking the feet and using a pumice stone on the corn
• wearing a donut shaped foam pad over the corn to reduce the pressure

It is best to visit a doctor as soon as someone suspects that there is something wrong. This is particularly important if a person hears a snapping, grinding, or popping noise at the time of the break.

If a person leaves a broken toe untreated, it can get worse and cause lasting problems.

Diagnosing a broken pinky toe

The doctor will examine the foot, gently pressing on different areas to find out where there is pain. They will also order X-rays. Additional imaging studies may be necessary if the initial X-ray does not show anything.

Treatment

It is a myth that nothing can mend broken toes. In fact, leaving them without treatment can lead to future complications. Healing of a broken toe may take 6–8 weeks.

A person may need to have their broken toe buddy taped to an adjacent one. Wearing a stiff-soled shoe can also help, as can using crutches to help keep weight off of the toe while it heals.

Rarely, a person may need to wear a cast to keep the foot immobile. Surgery may be necessary if there are multiple breaks or if nonsurgical treatment does not work.  Also, if a fracture leads to large amounts of blood underneath the nail, a person may need to take antibiotics and undergo nail removal.

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Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

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Symptoms, treatment, and other conditions

A person can break their pinky toe in a trauma, such as stubbing the toe or dropping something on it. They may hear a sound as the toe breaks and feel pain. The toe may be crooked, swollen, and bruised.

The pinky toe is a commonly broken toe, and the fracture usually occurs at its base.

This article looks at the symptoms of a broken small toe, along with some other problems that can cause pain and swelling in the area. It also examines the treatment and management options for this injury.

The most common symptoms of a broken pinky toe include:

• a snapping, grinding, or popping noise at the time of the break
• pain at the place of impact at the time the fracture occurs
• the toe appearing to be crooked
• bruising and swelling

If there is an open wound, a person should seek immediate medical attention to prevent infection.

Other than a broken pinky toe, there are many reasons a person might have pain or swelling in their smallest toe.

People can treat most of these causes at home. However, if home remedies do not seem to be working, it is important to see a doctor, as the issue could turn out to be something more serious.

The following sections outline some other causes of pain and swelling in the pinky toe in more detail.

Stress fracture

A stress fracture, or a hairline fracture, is a small crack or severe bruising within a bone.

It is slightly different from a traumatic fracture, as it usually occurs due to overuse and repetitive activity.

Symptoms

• pain during or after performing normal activities
• pain that goes away when resting but returns when standing or during activity
• painful to the touch
• swelling but no bruising

Treatment

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), the most important treatment for a stress fracture is rest.

Advising that it takes up to 8 weeks for most fractures to heal, the AAOS warn against resuming the activity that caused the stress fracture to occur too quickly. They warn that this could lead to long-term problems.

As well as resting, using shoe inserts or braces can help stress fractures heal.

Learn more about stress fractures here.

Sprains

A sprain occurs when there is damage to a ligament. Ligaments are the bands of tough, elastic connective tissue that connect the bones in the toes to each other.

Symptoms

• pain
• swelling
• difficulty walking
• tender to the touch

The AAOS categorize sprains into three grades:

• Grade I: This is characterized by overstretched ligaments, a minimal loss of function, and mild pain.
• Grade II: This is characterized by a partially torn ligament, moderate pain, and difficulty putting weight on the toe.
• Grade III: This is characterized by a complete tear of the ligament, severe pain, a total loss of function, and an inability to bear weight.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of the sprain but could include:

• resting the toe
• icing the toe
• wearing a compression sock
• using crutches to aid walking
• taking pain relief medication
• using a walking boot, which is a stiff boot that protects the toe as it heals

Learn about the difference between a sprain and a strain here.

Dislocation

A dislocation is a complete separation of the bones in a joint. The bones then move out of their normal position.

Symptoms

• severe pain
• deformity or displacement of the toe
• swelling and bruising
• numbness or tingling
• difficulty moving the toe

Treatment

• “buddy” taping it to an adjacent toe
• using a splint
• wearing a cast
• trying a walking boot

Bunion

A bunion is a painful, bony bump on the toe joint.

A bunion on the pinky toe is called a tailor’s bunion. Historically, this name comes from the tailors who sat cross-legged all day, with the outside edge of their feet rubbing on hard surfaces.

Symptoms

• a visible bump on the outside of the pinky toe
• pain and tenderness at the site of the bump
• redness and inflammation
• a callus or corn on the bump

Treatment

• making shoe modifications, such as wearing wider-fitting footwear
• using bunionette pads
• taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen

In some cases, corticosteroid injections can help treat the inflamed tissue around the joint. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases.

Learn more about tailor’s bunions here.

Corns

Corns are hard, thickened areas of skin that form as a result of friction or pressure. Corns are the foot’s natural defense to help protect the skin underneath them. They are a response to bone pressure against the skin.

Corns may develop on the tops and sides of the toes and on the balls of the feet.

Symptoms

• a hardened patch of skin
• open sores between the toes
• pain when wearing shoes

Treatment

• shaving the corn, but only when a health professional carries it out
• soaking the feet and using a pumice stone on the corn
• wearing a donut shaped foam pad over the corn to reduce the pressure

Learn more about corn remedies here.

It is best to visit a doctor as soon as someone suspects that there is something wrong. This is particularly important if a person hears a snapping, grinding, or popping noise at the time of the break.

If a person leaves a broken toe untreated, it can get worse and cause lasting problems.

The doctor will examine the foot, gently pressing on different areas to find out where there is pain.

They will also order X-rays. Additional imaging studies may be necessary if the initial X-ray does not show anything.

It is a myth that nothing can mend broken toes. In fact, leaving them without treatment can lead to future complications.

Healing of a broken toe may take 6–8 weeks.

A person may need to have their broken toe buddy taped to an adjacent one. Wearing a stiff-soled shoe can also help, as can using crutches to help keep weight off of the toe while it heals.

Rarely, a person may need to wear a cast to keep the foot immobile.

Surgery may be necessary if there are multiple breaks or if nonsurgical treatment does not work.

Also, if a fracture leads to large amounts of blood underneath the nail, a person may need to take antibiotics and undergo nail removal.

Taking NSAIDs such as aspirin and ibuprofen can help decrease swelling and pain.

At home, people can use the RICE method to try to reduce swelling and allow the pinky toe to heal.

RICE

• Rest: Give the toe time to heal.
• Ice: Ice the toe for up to 20 minutes four times per day.
• Compression: Using an elastic bandage or brace can provide support and reduce swelling.
• Elevate: Elevating the foot above the heart can also help reduce swelling.

Learn more about the RICE method here.

The pinky toe works with the rest of the toes to keep a person balanced. A person’s foot works in a tripod fashion to keep them balanced, with the little toe being one part, the big toe another, and the heel the third.

Sustaining damage to any part of this tripod can affect a person’s range of motion.

Learn more about the bones of the feet here.

It might be small, but the pinky toe plays a vital role in keeping a person balanced. Therefore, any damage to it can cause issues.

It is important to seek medical attention if a person suspects a broken toe, as it can get worse without treatment.

A person can treat milder problems at home, by changing their footwear, taking NSAIDs, and resting. A medical team can treat more serious issues.

causes, diagnosis, treatment in Yaroslavl

Hand injuries can be different, both in the location and in the nature of the damage. They occur in everyday life, during sports and professional activities. Injuries, hands can lead to structural changes in tissues, up to sprains and fractures. Therefore, immediately after traumatization, it is recommended to contact a traumatologist who will prescribe an X-ray examination and other diagnostic methods to make an accurate diagnosis and assess the degree of damage to the limb.

In the Clinic “CONSTANTA” you are always ready to receive qualified specialists in the field of traumatology with rich practical experience. Even if it seems to you that the hand injury is minor and you can get by with home treatment, it’s not worth the risk – it’s better to visit a doctor who will conduct an examination and assess the extent of the damage. Our Clinic is considered one of the best in Yaroslavl, as we have innovative equipment that is actively used for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Competent employees are always ready to discuss with the patient the questions of interest to him and provide qualified medical assistance in the framework of a particular clinical case.

How do hand injuries appear?

Symptoms of hand injuries depend primarily on the degree of damage. Contrary to popular belief, some patients do not feel severe pain even with arm fractures. Therefore, without professional skills and knowledge, the patient cannot visually determine what kind of injury has been received.

The main signs of a hand injury:

• soreness at the site of injury;
• puffiness;
• hematoma formation;
• restricted mobility;
• tissue redness;
• local temperature increase.

Immediately after the damage, carefully inspect the brush: are there deep abrasions, cuts on the skin, are bone fragments visible. Even if the integrity of the skin is not broken, before contacting a doctor, carry out an antiseptic treatment. Use any antiseptic you have at home – hydrogen peroxide, chlorhexidine, diluted alcohol. Wipe or irrigate the area with an antiseptic solution to reduce the risk of secondary infection. Then apply a non-tight sterile bandage and go to an appointment with a traumatologist.

Many patients cannot accurately describe the mechanism of injury. If the pain intensifies even after first aid, the specialist may suspect the development of a compartment syndrome, which is characterized by an increase in pressure in the fascial space. A common cause of the development of compartment syndrome is shrapnel damage, which often leads to malnutrition of muscle tissue and the spread of the infectious process.

In most cases, hand injuries are not accompanied by prolonged pain and a high risk of complications. The most dangerous are open injuries, which can be complicated by the addition of an infection and occur with severe circulatory disorders (ischemia). In such cases, prompt medical attention is needed. Only a qualified specialist can assess the degree of damage to the soft and hard tissues of the hand, identify hidden and obvious blood flow disorders and injuries of large or small vessels.

Fortunately, up to 70% of hand bruises are mild and do not require hospitalization or serious treatment. Most often, patients injure their fingers during sports training and solving everyday problems. With age, bone density decreases, so even slight behavior or compression can lead to a crack or fracture.

Hand injuries often occur in childhood. They arise as a result of active games, during physical education. The problem of early diagnosis of injuries in children is that the child often cannot specifically describe his feelings and evaluate them. Even with cracks and fractures, some babies do not complain of severe pain, and sometimes children cry for a long time from a slight bruise, greatly frightening their parents. It is better to play it safe and still contact a specialist so that the doctor examines the site of damage and, if necessary, prescribes additional diagnostics.

Tendon injuries of the hand

Tendons are characterized by increased elasticity and ability to stretch. When muscle tissue contracts, it is the tendon that pulls the bone along with it, providing active movement. With tendon injuries, motor activity is sharply limited – the patient cannot bend and unbend the hand. Complete tendon ruptures require surgery. It should be carried out in the first few hours after the injury.

Wrist bruises

The classic bruise of the soft tissues of the hand is very common in the practice of traumatologists. It is accompanied by reddening of the tissue, moderate soreness and swelling, local fever. and no serious treatment is required in this case. Specialists are limited to local anesthetics, which help to quickly relieve swelling and relieve pain.

If, in addition to a bruise, a violation of the integrity of tissues is detected, it is necessary to use antiseptics, and, if necessary, antibacterial agents. This will prevent the spread of infection. In some cases, it is required to immobilize the limb until the diagnosis is clarified.

The quality of primary antiseptic treatment directly affects the purity of infectious complications. Many patients do not pay attention to the need to decontaminate the injury site before meeting with a traumatologist. After treatment with an antiseptic and dressing, it is recommended to apply dry cold to reduce the risk of bleeding and the formation of a large hematoma.

Fractures of the bones of the hand

The share of fractures of the bones of the hand accounts for up to 30% of all injuries of the skeletal system. As a rule, the injury occurs in everyday life, when falling with an emphasis on the brush. There may be a fracture of the wrist, phalanges of the fingers or metacarpal bones. An accurate diagnosis can be established by the results of an X-ray examination. Most often, specialists encounter bone fractures as a result of accidental injuries or when heavy objects fall on the hand.

Fractures of the metacarpal bones are open and closed, with and without signs of displacement, multiple, single, intra-articular and extra-articular. They can be combined with damage to other structures of the hand. Medical tactics are selected individually, based on examination data, taking into account the general well-being of the patient, his age and the nature of the damage. Diagnosis of hand injuries includes taking an anamnesis and conducting certain diagnostic studies. During the examination and communication with the patient, the doctor finds out the approximate time of the injury, the patient’s complaints, determines the presence or absence of movement restrictions.

Dislocations of the hand

Dislocation in the wrist joint occurs mainly during falls with an emphasis on the hand or during a direct blow with a fist or a heavy object. Also, the injury occurs with a strong arching of the hand. After injury, the patient complains of sharp pain in the area of ​​the wrist joint. Visually, you can determine the pronounced swelling of the tissues and severe pain during palpation. Motor activity in the joint is sharply limited. If during the injury there was compression of the median nerve, then there will be a loss of sensitivity in the innervated zone.

First aid for bruises and other injuries of the hand

Immediately after the injury, the patient should make sure that he received a minor bruise and that no bones are visible at the site of the injury. The wound is washed with warm water and soap, gently dried and antiseptic treatment is carried out. Then you need to apply dry ice for 5-10 minutes. After this time, the hand must be examined again, check the activity of the fingers and the range of motion.

In case of damage to the hand with a violation of the integrity of the skin, it is necessary to apply a bandage from a sterile bandage. When properly applied, the bandage completely covers the damaged tissue, does not hinder movement and does not cause any pain. Make sure that the bandage does not squeeze the skin. If the tissues begin to turn blue, sensitivity decreases, this indicates that the bandage must be urgently loosened or replaced.

Dry ice should be applied every hour for 5-10 minutes. Usually this is enough to reduce pain and prevent the appearance of a hematoma. Intermittent cold therapy is effective for minor bruises and injuries. More serious injuries require specialist advice and a comprehensive examination.

The main tasks of the first emergency aid for injuries of the hand:

• limb immobilization to prevent the development of complications;
• stop bleeding from a wound;
• prophylactic antiseptic treatment;
• reduction of swelling, pain, signs of an inflammatory reaction.

Patients are not always able to give themselves first aid for hand injuries, especially if the wound is bleeding and there is a pronounced pain syndrome. If you cannot adequately assess the complexity of the situation and your condition, it is recommended that you immediately contact medical professionals. They themselves will carry out antiseptic treatment, relieve pain and, if necessary, use immobilization.

Treatment of hand injuries

Tactics of treatment for injuries of the hand is selected individually, depending on the degree of damage. Closed soft tissue injuries are treated on an outpatient basis, using special tight bandages that help with sprains and joint damage. Additionally, the use of warm compresses is recommended, but their use is prohibited in the first three days after injury (due to the risk of infection and bleeding).

To reduce pain, local remedies with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties are used. Cold is applied for 2-3 days, and after that you can use heat compresses on medical alcohol. It is allowed to apply warming ointments to injured tissues to quickly dissolve bruises and reduce pain.

In case of damage to the joints and bones, immobilizing and plaster bandages are used for a period of two weeks. A good therapeutic effect for hand injuries has physiotherapy, which includes various procedures: UHF, electrophoresis using a 10% calcium chloride solution or 0. 5% novocaine, diadynamic currents.

Patients with injuries of soft and hard tissues of the hand need to be examined by a qualified specialist. As a rule, it is enough to adhere to the general recommendations of a traumatologist in order to quickly recover. It is necessary to limit physical activity for the first 2 weeks, to protect the injured hand from negative external influences. The patient is prescribed cold, rest and elevated position of the limb. Often, for injuries, compression is used with elastic bandages, elastic bandages or splints. The first day the hand should be in an elevated position to ensure effective lymph circulation and prevent the occurrence of edema.

In the case of using a plaster cast, it is necessary to inspect the skin around the cast daily in order to detect areas with inflammation or discoloration of the tissues in time. If you notice cyanosis of the skin, you need to seek medical help to restore the normal blood supply to the tissues. If tissue areas with signs of an inflammatory reaction are found, it is recommended to use special lotions with anti-inflammatory and moisturizing effects.

Patients who suspect that they have a dislocation of the hand should immediately contact a traumatologist. The doctor will reposition the hand after high-quality anesthesia, and then fix the joint from the elbow to the base of the fingers with a plaster splint. If, even after reduction, the doctor determines the instability of the joint, additional fixation with Kirschner wires will have to be used. Compression of the median nerve requires surgery.

Rehabilitation after hand injuries

Rehabilitation is a mandatory step in the treatment of hand injuries. Rehabilitation measures may include physiotherapy techniques, massage, spa therapy, physiotherapy exercises, warming compresses, the use of therapeutic ointments. The effectiveness of rehabilitation depends on the motor activity and quality of life of the patient in the future. For the first months after the end of treatment, it is forbidden to expose the brush to increased physical exertion.

In our Clinic in Yaroslavl, you will be provided with the necessary assistance with hand injuries of any complexity. We are ready to answer all your questions and provide high-quality information support.

To ask questions or sign up for a consultation with a specialist, please call:
(4852) 37-00-85
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Finger fracture | Fractures of the nail phalanges, little fingers, displacement of fragments

Finger fracture is a common injury. As a rule, it happens with direct trauma. In rare cases, it is formed due to indirect effects. Most often, people get a fracture in a domestic, industrial or sports injury.

It is not uncommon for patients to break their fingers while working with woodworking machines or performing other professional duties. Sometimes multiple fractures occur, which are combined with dislocations, damage to ligaments and tendons. Traumatologists treat finger fractures.

Anatomy of the hand

The human hand is quite complex. It consists of 30-32 bones of different shapes and works with the help of muscle tissue and tendons, which are arranged in layers. The complex organization of the hand makes it possible to make movements around all three axes.

Fingers are topographically related to the hand, therefore they greatly increase its functional load. The human skeleton can only move in one plane. The range of motion will not exceed 180 degrees. Thanks to the articulation with the hand, the fingers can make not only adducting, but also retracting movements.

Causes of injury

Most often, a finger fracture occurs in people who are constantly involved in sports. As a rule, injuries occur in gymnasts, boxers, basketball and volleyball players. Fighters can’t always be saved by gloves during a fight. Quite often, a finger fracture occurs in young children and older people who suffer from osteoporosis.

Employees who work in production receive injuries. However, most people injure their fingers at home. A fracture is a fairly severe injury that requires constant care. Do not self-medicate, as this can end badly and have long-term health consequences. A severe injury requires surgical treatment. The recovery period for such fractures is quite long.

Pathoanatomy

There are about 14 bones of the phalanges of the fingers in the human upper limb. Fingers 2 through 5 have three phalanges: proximal, middle, and distal. The first finger has only two phalanges, which are called proximal and distal. The fingers make various subtle and intricately coordinated movements. This can lead to the fact that any injury can adversely affect the work of the hand and lead to a strong decrease in working capacity.

If a person does not seek help when a finger is broken, or if the fracture is treated incorrectly, they will face serious problems. There may be a decrease in hand grip function. Quite often, after improper treatment of a broken finger, pain remains even with minor loads on the hand.

There are also 14 phalanges of fingers in the lower limb of a person – three phalanges at the second to fifth fingers and two phalanges at the first finger. If a person damages the nail and middle phalanx, he can heal the injury without any problems. In the future, there will be no violation of the function of the foot. When a fracture of the main phalanges occurs, serious consequences can be faced. For example, improper fusion will lead to constant pain when walking or running.

Classification of fractures

There are many types of finger fractures that differ from each other. It happens that one phalanx is injured. Sometimes there are multiple fractures of several fingers at once. It is easy enough to determine a fracture, but only a doctor should do this.

Types of fractures:

1. Open and closed. It is hard enough to understand that a person has a closed fracture of the finger, without the help of a doctor. An open fracture is easy to see, as it is almost always accompanied by bleeding. When an open fracture occurs, there is a violation of the integrity of the bone and skin. Closed fractures are not only complete, but also incomplete with cracks.
2. With or without offset. It is very difficult to treat displaced fractures, as the bone is highly fragmented and has a large number of different fragments. According to certain signs, it can be understood that a person has a fracture with a displacement. For example, there is a shortening of the deformed area of ​​the finger. A person cannot move his fingers and experiences severe pain.
3. Marginal fracture. Such damage can be obtained in various ways. With a fracture of the little fingers, a partial or complete destruction of the phalanx occurs. Such an injury can occur due to a strong blow, a heavy object falling on the arm or leg. Quite often, patients receive a marginal fracture due to various pathologies. For example, an injury may occur against the background of a disease that causes brittle bones. Marginal fractures are major, nail, medium and combined.
4. Broken index finger. If a person has broken his index finger, he should immediately consult a doctor. The doctor will be able to quickly put the dislocated bone in place. If a person has a dislocation, a specialist will be able to put a cast or splint on the damaged area. The doctor will definitely prescribe medications to reduce pain. Most often, a fracture of the index finger is not dangerous if you immediately seek help from a doctor.
5. Fracture of the thumb on the hand. Such an injury often occurs due to a strong blow. During treatment, some difficulties may occur due to the special arrangement of the bones. A broken finger should be corrected by a doctor. For this, various devices that have a tensile effect will be used. When the injured finger stretches, the doctor will apply a cast. The plaster bandage will allow the finger to take a certain position. The bones will be immobilized until the treatment is complete.

Do not self-medicate as this can lead to serious problems. It is best to consult a doctor immediately so that he can make the correct diagnosis. The traumatologist will refer the patient for an x-ray. This will allow the specialist to understand whether there is a fracture of the finger or not.

Symptoms of a finger fracture

The very first and main symptom of a finger fracture is a sharp, unbearable pain. The intensity of the pain syndrome will depend on the severity of the injury. After the pain, there is severe swelling or bruising. This reaction is natural when a person is injured.

Other symptoms of a broken finger:

• sharp and severe pain that begins to increase with movement;
• the finger turns blue and gradually swells due to the fact that there is an internal hemorrhage;
• the damaged area is deformed;
• finger may be shortened;
• strange mobility of the phalanx, which was not there before the injury;
• fails to fully clench the hand into a fist or fully open the hand;
• a hematoma forms under the nails, which leads to severe pain;
• when you move your finger, an uncharacteristic crunch appears.

If a person has an open fracture of a finger, he will experience pain shock and bleeding. You should not try to set the bone yourself, as this can lead to serious consequences. This should only be done by an experienced traumatologist or surgeon in a hospital.

First aid for a broken finger

First aid must be provided to the victim if a finger fracture is suspected. All activities must be properly done to alleviate the patient’s condition. It will be necessary to remove the pain syndrome, immobilize the limb and overcome complications.

When do you need to call an ambulance?

Most people think that it is not necessary to call an ambulance for a broken finger and see a doctor. Unfortunately, people are wrong. It is imperative to call an ambulance for many reasons. For example, the pain of a broken finger can be so severe that it doesn’t even compare to a toothache.

Pain causes a state of shock, which is manifested by a sharp drop in blood pressure. In some cases, blood pressure may drop to zero. In order to remove the pain, the ambulance team has various drugs.

Quite often, a fracture can be accompanied by a severe deformity of the finger. There may be scratches or abrasions on the skin. The ambulance doctor will be able not only to clean and wash the wound, but also to apply a product to immobilize the fracture.

Fragments of a broken bone may puncture a digital artery or vein. Then there is heavy bleeding, which is not so easy to stop. Experienced paramedics will be able to apply a tourniquet to stop the bleeding. Without experience, it is quite difficult to stop heavy bleeding, so it is better to call the doctors right away.

How to hold a hand in case of a fracture?

It is impossible to say in what position the hand should be held when a finger is broken. The most important thing is to ensure the immobility of the limb and the broken joint. The hand should be relaxed. If a person does not change the position of the finger, the pain syndrome will remain at an average level.

You can use a kerchief bandage or an impromptu splint. This is done in order to reduce the mobility of the upper limb. It is advisable to ensure that your fingers do not touch different surfaces. You can pull the shoulder and forearm to the body with a special bandage. This will help to immobilize the upper limb and secure the injured finger.

Do I need to take pain medication?

Pain syndrome can lead to the development of inflammation in damaged tissues. The inflammatory process can increase pain. It is recommended to take painkillers or anti-inflammatory medicines immediately after injury. You will need to take one tablet at a time and wait for the medicine to take effect. Do not use too many drugs, otherwise an overdose may occur, which is life-threatening.

Should immobilization be carried out?

Immobilization is recommended to temporarily immobilize the limb. This will help prevent increased pain and complications. Transport immobilization is done, since during transportation there is a high risk of secondary damage to a broken finger.

You will need to fix the arm in the position where the person will feel the least pain. It should relax the muscles of the hand, then the pain syndrome should become less intense. In order to reduce the risk of re-injury, it is recommended to immobilize the entire upper limb and press it against the trunk.

Should I apply ice to an injured finger?

People always use cold to reduce tissue temperature. You can safely combine ice with medicines. You need to break pieces of ice and put in a waterproof bag or heating pad. Cold can quickly anesthetize the fracture site. It will become much easier for a person, as the pain will begin to go away. It should be remembered that very low temperatures can lead to frostbite. In order to avoid this, it is necessary to remove the bag from the injured finger every 5–8 minutes for several minutes.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis must be carried out by a traumatologist. When a person injures a hand, an X-ray of the fingers is taken. The picture is taken in two projections, and adjacent joints are necessarily captured. In order to understand the nature of the damage to the leg, x-rays of the toes can be taken.

Treatment of a broken finger

Doctors treat broken fingers in a variety of ways. It all depends on the complexity of the damage and associated complications. Doctors always use the following traditional methods of treating a broken finger: one-stage closed reduction, skeletal traction techniques, open reduction.

Complications of self-treatment of broken fingers

Treat a broken finger only by a doctor. If you self-treat, this can lead to various complications. Some consequences can cause a person much more problems than the fracture itself.

There are the most common complications:

• large callus;
• occurrence of a false joint;
• appearance of contracture;
• ankylosis formation;
• osteomyelitis;
• malunion of bones.

It is not recommended to self-treat fractures if you do not want to face the above problems. If your finger is injured, you should visit the emergency room or call an ambulance.

Rehabilitation, prognosis and prevention

The duration of rehabilitation will depend only on the complexity and type of finger fracture. In a child and adolescent, the injury will heal much faster than in an elderly person. If bone fragments of an open fracture with displacement were fixed, recovery will take from three to four weeks. With multi-comminuted fractures, the rehabilitation period will increase by another 14 days.

Prevention should be to avoid injury. Ordinary fractures are fixed with a plaster cast for 2-3 weeks. Ability to work can be restored within 30 days. If unstable damage occurs, immobilization is carried out for 21 days. Recovery in this case will take 4-7 weeks.

When a ligament or tendon rupture occurs, the recovery period will be quite long. You will have to develop the tendons of the hand within 14 days. Full recovery time after surgery is 6-8 weeks. Some people have to have ligaments or tendons sutured.

What does recovery and rehabilitation include:

1. Diet. You will have to eat foods that contain a lot of protein and calcium.
2. Physiotherapy procedures.