What are the symptoms of a broken pinky toe. How can you treat a broken pinky toe at home. When should you seek medical attention for a broken toe. How long does it take for a broken pinky toe to heal. What are the best ways to manage pain from a broken toe. How can you prevent complications during the healing process of a broken pinky toe. What are the long-term effects of a broken pinky toe.

Understanding Broken Pinky Toes: Causes and Symptoms

A broken pinky toe, also known as a fractured fifth toe, is a common injury that can occur due to various causes. The small bones in our toes, called phalanges, are fragile and susceptible to fractures. Understanding the causes and recognizing the symptoms is crucial for proper treatment and recovery.

Common Causes of Broken Pinky Toes

• Stubbing the toe against a hard surface
• Dropping a heavy object on the foot
• Sudden twisting or bending of the toe
• Sports-related injuries
• Falls or accidents

Recognizing the Symptoms

Identifying a broken pinky toe can be challenging, as the symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the fracture. However, some common signs include:

• Intense pain, especially when bearing weight
• Swelling and bruising around the affected area
• Difficulty moving the toe
• Visible deformity or misalignment
• A cracking sound at the time of injury

Is it possible to walk with a broken pinky toe. While it may be possible to walk with a broken pinky toe, it is generally not recommended without proper support and protection. Walking on an injured toe can exacerbate the pain and potentially lead to further damage or complications in the healing process.

Immediate First Aid for a Broken Pinky Toe

When you suspect a broken pinky toe, taking immediate action can help alleviate pain and prevent further injury. Here are some essential first aid steps to follow:

1. Rest: Avoid putting weight on the injured foot and keep it elevated.
2. Ice: Apply ice packs wrapped in a towel for 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours to reduce swelling.
3. Compression: Gently wrap the toe with an elastic bandage to minimize swelling.
4. Elevation: Keep the foot elevated above heart level when resting to reduce blood flow and swelling.

Can you treat a broken pinky toe at home. Many cases of broken pinky toes can be treated at home with proper care and attention. However, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about the severity of the injury or if you experience severe pain, numbness, or signs of infection.

Home Treatment Strategies for a Broken Pinky Toe

For mild to moderate fractures, home treatment can be effective in promoting healing and managing discomfort. Here are some strategies to consider:

Buddy Taping Technique

Buddy taping is a common method used to stabilize a broken pinky toe:

1. Clean and dry both the injured toe and the adjacent toe.
2. Place a small piece of cotton or gauze between the toes to prevent skin irritation.
3. Wrap medical tape around both toes, starting from the base and working towards the tip.
4. Ensure the tape is snug but not too tight to avoid restricting blood flow.
5. Change the tape and cotton daily or if it becomes wet or dirty.

Proper Footwear and Protection

Choosing appropriate footwear is crucial for protecting the injured toe and promoting healing:

• Wear wide, comfortable shoes with a stiff sole to minimize movement.
• Consider using a special post-operative shoe or orthopedic sandal recommended by a healthcare provider.
• Avoid high heels or tight-fitting shoes until the toe has fully healed.

Pain Management Techniques

Managing pain is an essential aspect of the healing process. Here are some effective methods:

• Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Topical analgesic creams or gels
• Gentle massage of the surrounding area to improve circulation
• Cold therapy using ice packs or frozen vegetable bags

How long does it typically take for a broken pinky toe to heal. The healing time for a broken pinky toe can vary depending on the severity of the fracture and individual factors. On average, it takes about 4 to 6 weeks for complete healing. However, most pain and swelling usually subside within the first week or two.

When to Seek Medical Attention for a Broken Pinky Toe

While many broken pinky toes can be treated at home, certain circumstances warrant professional medical attention. It’s important to recognize these situations to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.

Signs That Require Immediate Medical Care

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with home treatment
• Visible deformity or misalignment of the toe
• Open wounds or bleeding associated with the injury
• Signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or pus
• Numbness or tingling in the toe or foot
• Inability to move the toe

Diagnostic Procedures

When you visit a healthcare provider for a suspected broken pinky toe, they may perform the following diagnostic procedures:

1. Physical examination to assess pain, swelling, and range of motion
2. X-rays to confirm the fracture and determine its severity
3. In some cases, CT scans or MRI for more detailed imaging

What treatment options might a doctor recommend for a severe broken pinky toe. For severe fractures, a doctor may recommend more intensive treatments such as:
– Reduction: Realigning the broken bone
– Casting or splinting to immobilize the toe
– In rare cases, surgery to repair complex fractures or remove bone fragments
– Prescription pain medications or antibiotics if there’s a risk of infection

Complications and Long-Term Effects of Broken Pinky Toes

While most broken pinky toes heal without complications, it’s essential to be aware of potential issues that may arise during or after the healing process.

Potential Complications

• Chronic pain or stiffness in the toe
• Malunion: Improper healing leading to toe deformity
• Arthritis in the affected joint
• Nail bed injuries resulting in abnormal nail growth
• Nerve damage causing numbness or tingling

Long-Term Effects and Management

Most people recover fully from a broken pinky toe without long-term effects. However, some individuals may experience:

• Slight changes in toe alignment or appearance
• Intermittent discomfort during certain activities
• Increased sensitivity to cold temperatures
• A need for wider or more comfortable shoes

How can you minimize the risk of long-term complications from a broken pinky toe. To reduce the likelihood of long-term issues, it’s crucial to:
– Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully
– Complete any recommended physical therapy exercises
– Gradually return to normal activities as advised
– Wear appropriate, supportive footwear
– Address any persistent pain or discomfort promptly

Rehabilitation and Exercises for Broken Pinky Toes

Once the initial healing phase is complete, rehabilitation exercises can help restore strength, flexibility, and function to the injured toe. These exercises should be performed gently and only after receiving approval from your healthcare provider.

Toe Flexibility Exercises

1. Toe curls: Gently curl and uncurl your toes, holding each position for 5 seconds.
2. Toe spreads: Spread your toes apart and hold for 5 seconds, then relax.
3. Toe taps: Tap each toe individually on the ground while keeping the rest of your foot still.

Strength-Building Exercises

• Towel scrunches: Place a small towel on the floor and use your toes to scrunch it towards you.
• Marble pickup: Practice picking up marbles or small objects with your toes.
• Resistance band exercises: Use a light resistance band to perform gentle toe extensions.

When is it safe to begin rehabilitation exercises after a broken pinky toe. The timing for starting rehabilitation exercises varies depending on the severity of the fracture and individual healing progress. Generally, it’s safe to begin gentle exercises around 2-3 weeks after the injury, but always consult your healthcare provider before initiating any exercise program.

Preventing Future Toe Injuries: Tips and Strategies

While it’s impossible to prevent all accidents, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of future toe injuries:

Footwear Considerations

• Wear properly fitting shoes with adequate toe room
• Choose shoes with sturdy soles and good arch support
• Use protective footwear in hazardous work environments
• Avoid walking barefoot, especially on hard surfaces

Environmental Awareness

1. Keep living spaces well-lit to avoid tripping hazards
2. Remove clutter from walkways and high-traffic areas
3. Use caution when moving heavy objects
4. Be mindful of uneven surfaces when walking outdoors

Lifestyle and Health Factors

Maintaining overall health and fitness can contribute to stronger bones and reduced injury risk:

• Engage in regular weight-bearing exercises to strengthen bones
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
• Practice balance and coordination exercises to prevent falls
• Quit smoking, as it can impair bone healing and density

What are some effective ways to improve balance and coordination to prevent toe injuries. Incorporating activities such as yoga, tai chi, or balance board exercises can significantly improve your overall balance and coordination. Additionally, simple daily practices like standing on one foot while brushing your teeth or walking heel-to-toe in a straight line can help enhance proprioception and reduce the risk of accidental toe injuries.

Broken toe – self-care: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

Each toe is made up of 2 or 3 small bones. These bones are small and fragile. They can break after you stub your toe or drop something heavy on it.

Broken toes are a common injury. The fracture is most often treated without surgery and can be taken care of at home.

Severe injuries include:

• Breaks that cause the toe to be crooked
• Breaks that cause an open wound
• Injuries that involve the big toe

If you have a severe injury, you should seek medical help.

Injuries that involve the big toe may need a cast or splint to heal. In rare cases, tiny pieces of bone can break off and keep the bone from healing properly. In this case, you may need surgery.

Symptoms of a broken toe include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Bruising that can last up to 2 weeks
• Stiffness

If your toe is crooked after the injury, the bone may be out of place and may need to be straightened in order to heal properly. This may be done either with or without surgery.

Most broken toes will heal on their own with proper care at home. It can take 4 to 6 weeks for complete healing. Most pain and swelling will go away within a few days to a week.

If something was dropped on the toe, the area under the toenail can bruise. This will go away in time with nail growth. If there is substantial blood under the nail, it may be removed to reduce pain and potentially prevent the loss of the nail.

For the first few days after your injury:

• Rest. Stop doing any physical activity that causes pain, and keep your foot immobile whenever possible.
• For the first 24 hours, ice your toe for 20 minutes every hour you are awake, then 2 to 3 times a day. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.
• Keep your foot raised to help keep swelling down.
• Take pain medicine if necessary.

For pain, you can use ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn).

• If you have heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, or have had stomach ulcers or bleeding, talk with your health care provider.
• Do not give aspirin to children.

You may also take acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) for pain relief. If you have liver disease, talk with your provider before using this medicine.

Do not take more than the amount recommended on the medicine bottle or by your provider.

Your provider may prescribe a stronger medicine if needed.

To take care of your injury at home:

• Buddy taping. Wrap tape around the injured toe and the toe next to it. This helps keep your toe stable. Place a small wad of cotton between your toes to prevent tissues from becoming too moist. Change the cotton daily.
• Footwear. It may be painful to wear a regular shoe. In this case, your doctor can provide a stiff-bottomed shoe. This will protect your toe and make room for swelling. Once swelling has gone down, wear a solid, stable shoe to protect your toe.

Slowly increase the amount of walking you do each day. You can return to normal activity once the swelling has gone down, and you can wear a stable and protective shoe.

There may be some soreness and stiffness when you walk. This will go away once the muscles in your toe begin to stretch and strengthen.

Ice your toe after activity if there is any pain.

More severe injuries that require casting, reduction, or surgery will take time to heal, possibly 6 to 8 weeks.

Follow up with your provider 1 to 2 weeks after your injury. If the injury is severe, your provider may want to see you more than once. X-rays may be taken.

Call your provider if you have any of the following:

• Sudden numbness or tingling
• A sudden increase in pain or swelling
• An open wound or bleeding
• Fever or chills
• Healing that is slower than expected
• Red streaks on the toe or foot
• Toes that appear more crooked or bent

Fractured toe – self-care; Broken bone – toe – self-care; Fracture – toe – self-care; Fracture phalanx – toe

Alkhamisi A. Toe fractures. In: Eiff MP, Hatch RL, Higgins MK, eds. Fracture Management for Primary Care and Emergency Medicine. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 16.

Rose NGW, Green TJ. Ankle and foot. In: Walls RM, Hockberger RS, Gausche-Hill M, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 49.

Updated by: Jesse Borke, MD, CPE, FAAEM, FACEP, Attending Physician at Kaiser Permanente, Orange County, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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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.

symptoms, treatment, prevention at home

The Internet is full of jokes about the insidious legs of the sofa and nightstands, which dream of meeting the little toe. Many remember the pain that happens after their sharp contact. But few then rush to the doctor. A broken toe is often seen as comical. As a result, a person looks at whether the finger is moving or not, it hurts – it doesn’t hurt, and lives on calmly. Even if the finger swells the next day, many rely on “it will pass by itself.” In some cases, this is what happens. But sometimes the severity of the situation can exceed the insignificance of external symptoms, especially since not only the little finger can be broken on the leg.

– The big toe or little toe is most commonly affected by toe fractures, says traumatologist Erwin Kuzmin . “People hit furniture – these are common cases when, for example, a young mother ran after a child and got injured. Either the person was in a hurry to the TV, the children frolicked next to the pieces of furniture. In these cases, the little fingers are more often injured. In my practice, there was a treatment with a broken toe as a result of a Rottweiler jumping on the mistress – the dog made a maneuver out of the best of feelings, as a result, the woman had a fracture of her little finger. Big toes are injured mainly when playing football, participating in outdoor sports, accidentally or intentionally kicking a hard surface. You can also get a broken toe if a heavy angular object falls from above. As an example, I can cite a schoolboy whose briefcase with textbooks fell on his leg. Severe injuries, for example, resulting from an accident, are not taken into account, since there we are talking, most often, about a combined injury and saving the patient’s life, and not a broken toe.

Symptoms of a broken toe

Three main symptoms:

• pain;
• edema;
• deformation.

Pain. The first and main symptom of a broken toe is pain. The pain syndrome also occurs with bruises and dislocations, therefore, first of all, it is worth paying attention to its intensity. Constant throbbing pain in the finger, especially at night, is a sure reason to go to the emergency room.

Edema. When a toe is broken, swelling appears along with pain, in other words, swelling. As a result of injury, the integrity of body tissues, vascular permeability and water-salt balance are violated, as a result, an excess of fluid accumulates in the intercellular space, which we observe visually. Small blood vessels are also damaged, and a hematoma joins the edema, i.e. bruise. When you try to move your finger, swelling and hematoma can increase, as well as spread to neighboring tissues.

Deformation . A clear sign of a broken toe is its curvature. Most often, in such a situation, it is impossible to move them, and an attempt to touch causes a sharp pain. However, it should be borne in mind that with significant edema, the deformation may not be visible to the eye, so it is better to consult a doctor to make a diagnosis.

Treatment of a fractured toe

Fractures are different – open and closed, with and without displacement of fragments, oblique, transverse, comminuted, and so on. Treatment of a fracture depends on its type. If this is a simple fracture without displacement, then a universal remedy is the imposition of a splint for short-term immobilization of the limb. After two weeks, it will be possible to step on the leg, after three – to remove the splint.

Doctors used to recommend tight bandaging for several weeks, especially for injuries to the middle and ring fingers. It was necessary to apply a tourniquet, connecting the injured finger with the neighboring uninjured one, and tightly tie them. Bandage every 3-4 days. But, the main rule in the treatment of a broken toe is that patients should not lean on the injured leg.

– Most patients consider a broken toe a trifle and neglect the orthopedic regimen, comments Erwin Kuzmin. – As a result, the consolidation of bone fragments is delayed, the fracture becomes ununited. Treatment is delayed. Therefore, it is much more practical to temporarily walk with a splint and enjoy life. After all, other types of toe fractures require more serious intervention – surgery.

Diagnosis

The main method for diagnosing a broken toe is radiography. It will allow you to immediately differentiate the diagnosis: bruise or fracture, as well as determine the type of fracture.

The main thing in the healing process is to observe the orthopedic regimen. Photo: Pixabay

Modern Treatments

Modern medicine has advanced particularly in the treatment of complex fractures. First of all, this concerns the treatment of comminuted fractures of the toes, where fixation of bone fragments is necessary using special structures: knitting needles or plates.

Today, there are many options for plates for periosteal osteosynthesis, with which you can fix any bone. Plates vary in size, shape, functionality. If we are talking about a fracture of the toe, then it is installed for 3-4 weeks and guarantees 100% fixation. Subsequently, it can be both removed and, if indicated, left. However, there is always the risk of a suppurative process.

Kirschner wires mainly fix small bones and joints. Fixation can be carried out both externally, when the end of the pin rises above the surface, and internally, when the entire structure is under the skin. Immobilization lasts, as a rule, for 4 to 6 weeks after the operation. The operation is minimally invasive, less traumatic than the installation of plates. Subsequently, you can remove the spokes at any emergency room.

Prevention of a broken toe at home

Broken toes are usually the result of hitting something hard and immovable, or from dropping a heavy, angular object on the foot. Less often – from bending the fingers inward. Therefore, pay attention when buying furniture to its protruding parts. Do not arrange furniture so that it is in your path or aisle. It is advisable to walk around the house in slippers that can soften the blow. Be careful when lifting heavy objects. Also pay attention to the selection of shoes: wearing shoes that are narrow or smaller than necessary in size is fraught with injuries on the street, especially on ice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should you see a doctor if you have a broken toe when it heals on its own?

Indeed, the bone can heal itself if it is a simple fracture. Only in the absence of treatment, an incorrectly fused toe can partially lose its mobility and remain deformed. This will make wearing shoes uncomfortable, can cause pain, and in the future threatens with arthritis.

In other cases, if the fracture is complicated, such connivance is fraught with inflammation and amputation.

Do you need a cast for broken toes?

If only the toes are fractured, a splint is applied – a light circular plaster bandage. It does not cover the whole leg, it can be removed at any time for examination or hygiene procedures with the permission of a doctor.

Need a splint after finger surgery?

If a broken toe required surgery, a splint is often placed after surgery for up to two weeks. During this period, it is recommended to walk as little as possible and rest more, while in bed, keep your leg in an elevated position.

Treatment of a broken finger – Article

• Apply ice, apply a tight bandage and lift the injured area. Reduce swelling and pain with ice, a compressive bandage, and a finger lift. The sooner you apply these first aid methods after an injury, the better. Don’t forget to fix the injured finger as well.
• Apply ice to your finger. Wrap a bag of frozen vegetables or ice in a thin towel and gently apply it to your finger to reduce swelling and pain. Apply an ice pack immediately after injury for no longer than 20 minutes at a time.
• Compress the affected area. Gently but firmly wrap the finger with a soft elastic bandage to reduce swelling and fix the fracture site. When you first visit your doctor, find out if a bandage is recommended to reduce swelling and secure your injured finger.
• Raise your hand. If possible, try to keep the injured finger above the level of the heart. For example, you can sit on the sofa with your feet and put your hand with the injured finger on the back of the sofa.
• Also try not to use the injured finger for daily activities until you have cleared this matter with your doctor.

• Ask your doctor if you need a splint. Splinters are sometimes placed on broken fingers to immobilize them and prevent further damage.
• The type of splint depends on which pin is damaged. For minor fractures, you can tie a finger to an adjacent one to immobilize it.
• Dorsal protruding splint from behind the toe prevents it from bending backwards. With a soft splint, you can gently bend your finger into the palm of your hand and carefully secure it in place with a soft bandage.
• Rigid U-shaped aluminum splint prevents finger from stretching. It is placed behind the damaged finger and firmly fixes it.
• In more serious cases, the doctor may apply a fixed fiberglass splint that extends from the finger past the wrist. Such a tire resembles a miniature plaster bandage for a finger.
• Check with your doctor if surgery is needed. Surgery may be needed to properly heal and heal the bone if conventional methods of fixation and treatment are ineffective. As a rule, operations are used for more complex fractures, for which one fixation of the finger is not enough.
• Operations are required for complex, open and unstable fractures, mobile bone fragments or a danger to the joint, that is, in cases where it is necessary to put the bones back in place so that they heal properly.

• Continue to see your doctor or appropriate specialists. Once a diagnosis has been made and treatment determined, your doctor may schedule a follow-up visit in a few weeks. After 1-2 weeks, the doctor may take another x-ray to determine how the treatment is progressing. Visit your doctor so that he can monitor the progress of the treatment.
• If you have any questions during treatment, please contact your doctor.
• Be prepared for possible complications. Typically, with proper treatment, finger fractures heal very well within 4 to 6 weeks. And although the risk of complications from a broken finger is minimal, it is still better to be aware of their danger:
  • The formation of scar tissue around a fracture can lead to joint stiffness. This problem can be dealt with through physical therapy, which will strengthen the muscles of the finger and reduce scar tissue.
  • As it heals, the knuckle of the finger may turn, resulting in deformity of the bone and preventing proper grip. In this case, surgery may be required.
  • Two fragments of a broken bone may not heal properly, which can lead to permanent instability at the fracture site.