What you should know about a broken pinky toe

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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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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.

Little toe bruising: dangers and treatments

Contents

• 1 Little toe bruising: causes, symptoms and effective remedies
  • 1. 1 Little toe bruising: dangers and treatments
    • 1.1.1 What is it bruised little finger ?
  • 1.2 Possible cases of dangerous consequences of bruising of the little toe on the leg
  • 1.3 How to protect the little toe from bruising?
  • 1.4 Diagnosing a bruised little toe
  • 1.5 Treating a bruised little toe at home
  • 1.6 Basic preparations for little finger injury
  • 1.7 Physiotherapy for the treatment of little finger injury on the leg
  • 1.8 Treatment of little finger injury in children
  • 1.9 Consequences and complications of improper treatment of little finger injury
  • 1.10 Related video:
  • 1.11 Question- answer:
    • • 1.11.0.1 What is the most effective treatment for a bruised little toe?
      • 1.11.0.2 How to determine how serious the bruise of the little toe is?
      • 1.11.0.3 How to relieve pain from a bruised little toe?
      • 1.11.0.4 How is the process of tightening the bruised little toe on the leg?
      • 1. 11.0.5 How can a bruised little toe be prevented?
      • 1.11.0.6 Is it possible to self-treat a bruised little toe?
  • 1.12 When should I see a doctor if my little toe is hurt?
  • 1.13 Prevention of bruised little toes

A bruised little toe can cause joint diseases and deformities of the toe. Learn how to properly treat a bruise and prevent the consequences.

How many times have we bruised our little toes when we weren’t careful about furniture, when we fell carelessly or stepped on something sharp? And it would seem that such an injury is not worth much attention, because it’s just a toe. But in fact, a bruised little toe on the leg can lead to serious consequences and requires timely and proper treatment.

Bruising of the little toe on the leg can cause acute pain, swelling and bruising. Complicating the situation can be a violation of the integrity of the skin or swelling of the leg. If you do not take action, then tissue necrosis and even infection may develop. In addition, a bruise can lead to disruption of normal circulation in the leg, causing difficulty in mobility and poor blood supply to the body as a whole.

At the first symptoms of a bruised little toe, you should consult a doctor. Depending on the severity of the injury, treatment may include methods such as applying cold to the injured area, fixing the injured finger, and prescribing anti-inflammatory and pain medications. Sometimes a rehabilitation course may be required to restore mobility.

In any case, do not forget that a bruised little toe on the leg can cause serious harm to health, if not paid attention to. Therefore, the main thing is not to postpone going to the doctor and follow his recommendations. And then you can quickly return to your normal life and prevent re-injury.

Bruised little toe: dangers and treatments

What is a bruised little toe?

A bruised little toe is one of the most common injuries that can occur in everyday life. A bruise occurs when the soft tissue around the bones in the leg is damaged by a blow or severe injury. The little toe is the toe that sits below the fourth toe.

A contusion of the little toe can result from a fall on the foot, a blow to an object, or improper footwear that can restrict the movement of the toes. A person who has received a bruised little finger may experience pain that may limit their movement.

• Symptoms of a bruised little finger:
• Pain
• Swelling
• Redness
• Difficulty in movement

Yes

9 0002 58.33%

No

41.67%

Possible cases of dangerous consequences of bruising the little toe

A bruised little toe on the foot may seem like a minor injury. However, the consequences that may result from this type of injury should not be neglected.

In some cases, a bruised little finger may be accompanied by a fracture. If you do not take timely treatment, a fracture of the little finger can lead to serious consequences, such as leg deformity or impaired function.

Also, in case of bruising of the little finger, acute pain and swelling may occur, which can cause severe discomfort for the person. In some cases, the pain and swelling gradually increase and can cause a blood supply interruption, which can make it difficult to stop the blood flow.

A bruised little toe should not be neglected, even if it does not cause much discomfort or is accompanied by severe symptoms. It is always necessary to check the condition of the injured area and take measures for timely treatment.

1. It is important to know that improper treatment can lead to complications and more serious consequences.
2. In case of severe pain and swelling, it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention.

How to protect the little finger from injury?

The little toe is one of the most vulnerable places for bruises. To avoid pain and damage, you need to follow a few rules:

• Choose the right shoes. Wear comfortable shoes with enough room for your toes. It should be no smaller and no larger than your foot. Choose models with flexible soles so that it absorbs movements well.
• Be careful when walking. Avoid slabs, uneven surfaces and other obstacles that could hurt your toes. If you notice that there are rocks or other small objects on the ground, carefully step around them.
• Do leg exercises. Strong muscles provide better protection against bruises and damage. Include in your workout exercises aimed at strengthening the muscles of the foot and lower leg.

Diagnosis of a contusion of the little toe

When you get an injury to your little toe on your foot, it is important to make a correct diagnosis in order to exclude the possibility of serious damage. The main signs of a bruised little finger are pain, swelling, and hemorrhage. If the patient is unable to step on the foot, this may indicate a fracture.

To clarify the diagnosis, the doctor conducts an examination and evaluates the degree of swelling, bruising and pain on palpation. For greater accuracy of diagnosis, radiography or magnetic resonance imaging can be used. These methods allow you to identify fractures, sprains or cut wounds.

If you have an injury to your little toe, you should immediately consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Do not self-medicate, as this can lead to aggravation of the injury and the occurrence of dangerous complications.

Treatment of a bruised little toe at home

A bruised little toe is a fairly common injury that can occur in everyday life. However, even with the slightest damage, proper and timely treatment is required to avoid complications.

At home, the treatment of a bruised little toe on the leg is to apply an ice compress to the injured area. This will help reduce swelling and relieve pain.

In the absence of skin lesions, an ointment or gel with an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect can also be applied. However, before use, you should consult your doctor.

An important point in the treatment of a bruised little toe is to keep calm and wear comfortable shoes with soft soles. This will help avoid additional pressure on the affected area.

If there is no improvement or deterioration within a few days, you should consult a doctor.

• Applying ice packs to the injury
• Using an ointment or gel with analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects
• Keeping calm and wearing comfortable shoes
• Seek medical attention if no improvement

Primary little finger medications

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen or Diclofenac are often used for little toe bruises. They help reduce pain and inflammation at the site of the injury.

Ointments and gels containing heparin, thrombocide, or diclofenac may also be used to relieve pain and swelling. However, before using it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Antiseptics such as Chlorhexidine or Boric Acid are recommended to prevent infections. They will help clean the wound and prevent possible complications.

If the bruise is accompanied by severe pain and swelling, the doctor may prescribe a course of physical therapy, which includes magnetotherapy, laser therapy, or ultrasound therapy.

• Ibuprofen is a drug that helps reduce pain and inflammation
• Diclofenac – used for bruises that cause moderate to severe pain and inflammation
• Heparin ointment – helps reduce swelling and improve circulation
• Chlorhexidine – used to treat wounds and prevent infections

900 11

Physiotherapy for the treatment of a contusion of the little finger on the leg

In case of bruising of the little finger on the leg, it is important not only to ensure the rest of the injured limb, but also to carry out complex treatment. One of the most effective methods of recovery after an injury is physiotherapy, which helps to speed up the regeneration processes and normalize blood circulation in the affected tissue area.

One of the simplest and most accessible methods of physiotherapy is dry heat. It improves blood circulation, reduces pain and reduces swelling, eliminating the possibility of complications in the form of blood clots and inflammation. Dry heat can be applied using gel-filled pads, special heating pads, or bags of dry hot products (such as cereals).

Another effective method is ultrasound therapy aimed at relieving inflammation, accelerating tissue regeneration processes and also aimed at reducing pain. For the session, an ultrasonic device with various nozzles or a universal nozzle is used.

An important component of physiotherapy is massage, which is aimed at relieving muscle tension and swelling, softening and improving the elasticity of the connective tissue. The massage technique will depend on the nature and extent of the injury, as well as the general condition of the patient.

Also an important role can be played by electrophoresis, in which the medicinal substance is fed through the skin using an electric current. This technique allows you to deliver drugs to the damaged area directly, without passing them through the gastrointestinal tract.

• Physiotherapy is a fairly effective method of treating a bruised little toe on the leg, which allows you to speed up the process of tissue regeneration, relieve pain and reduce swelling;
• Dry heat, massage, ultrasound, and electrophoresis are the most common physical therapies for treating a bruised little toe;
• To choose the most optimal method of physiotherapy, it is worth contacting a specialist. It will help determine which methods will help in your particular case and how to apply them correctly.

Peculiarities of treatment of little finger contusion in children

Little finger contusion in children is a fairly common injury that can occur during play or seizures.

Treatment should be immediate as the child’s foot is still in the growth stage and toe deformity may occur.

Observation and rest

After a bruised little finger, it is necessary to observe the condition of the child and give him the opportunity to rest his leg.

Cooling and leg elevation

To reduce pain and reduce swelling, apply ice or a cold compress to the injury and raise the leg above heart level.

Medications

Using pain relievers or anti-inflammatories can help relieve pain and swelling.

Finger fixation

If the little finger is very swollen, it may be necessary to fix the finger with a bandage or a special hook, which will keep the finger in the correct shape and help it heal properly.

Consequences and complications of improperly treated bruised little fingers

Incorrectly treated bruised little fingers can lead to serious consequences. First of all, this can lead to the development of an inflammatory process, which can turn into an acute form.

If a bruise does not heal within a week, it can lead to leg deformities, loss of sensation, or even complete loss of leg function. In addition, if treatment is not started on time, an infection can occur that can lead to pustules and sepsis.

If the bruise occurs in the presence of a disease such as diabetes mellitus or impaired blood circulation, the injury can lead to even more serious complications, such as the development of ulcers, gangrene and amputation.

• Inflammatory process
• Deformities of the leg
• Loss of sensation and function of the leg
• Infections
• Pustules and sepsis
• Development of ulcers, gangrene and amputation in the presence of diseases 900 10

Related videos:

Q&A:

What is the most effective treatment for a bruised little toe?

The effectiveness of the treatment of a bruised little toe on the leg depends on the degree of tissue damage and the individual characteristics of the patient. For some people, there is no need to wear a cast, indicating less severe damage to the bones and ligaments. However, in cases of severe bruising, it may be necessary to use a cast and regularly take painkillers. Therefore, it is better to consult an orthopedic doctor who will select the appropriate treatment method for a particular case.

How to determine how serious the bruise of the little toe is?

You can determine the severity of a bruised little toe on the leg by the presence of symptoms: swelling, severe pain, bruising. If the bruise of the little finger is accompanied by soreness when pressed, severe swelling or bruising, then this may indicate the successful development of damage. In this case, it is better to consult an orthopedic doctor to establish an accurate diagnosis and prescribe an effective treatment.

How to relieve pain from a bruised little toe?

To reduce the pain of a bruised little toe on the leg, apply cold to the injured area, as well as use painkillers. For a cold wrap, you can use ice wrapped in a terry towel, or a special pharmacy cold bandage. Pain medications may be prescribed by your doctor and should be used as directed or recommended by your doctor. You should also avoid stress on the injured limb.

How is the process of tightening the bruised little toe on the leg?

The process of tightening the bruise of the little finger on the leg occurs due to an independent regenerative process of the body. In the first days after injury, a hematoma forms at the site of injury – an accumulation of blood, which then turns into a blood clot. Gradually, the cells responsible for tissue repair (fibroblasts) begin to release collagen, which promotes the healing of damaged tissues. This process can take days or even weeks, depending on the severity of the injury.

How can a bruised little toe be prevented?

A small toe injury can be prevented by following a few simple guidelines: wear comfortable shoes with non-slip soles, play sports only with appropriate equipment, avoid unnecessary physical exertion, especially on the feet, etc. It is also important not to ignore the warnings of your body – if you feel tired and sore in your legs, it is better to rest and remove the load on your legs.

Is it possible to self-treat a bruised little toe?

In most cases, a bruised little toe can be treated at home, but it is essential to consult a doctor to check for symptoms of a bruise and to determine the severity of the injury. The doctor can prescribe treatment methods, as well as give recommendations for the use of painkillers and cold bandages. At home, you can use dietary therapies (for example, increasing vitamin C levels), as well as massage and light exercises to improve blood circulation.

When should I see a doctor for a bruised little toe?

Bruising of the little toe is a relatively common injury in people of all ages. In most cases, this is not a serious disease and goes away on its own without the intervention of specialists. However, there are cases when you should definitely consult a doctor.

• If the pain and swelling of the leg does not go away for a long time, this may be a sign of a serious injury and professional treatment will be required.
• If the bleeding does not stop for a long time, you should immediately consult a doctor, as this can lead to unpleasant and dangerous complications.
• If there is a feeling of numbness in the leg, tingling or lack of sensation, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.

If a bruised little toe is associated with complications, a professional expert will be able to determine the extent of the injury and prescribe the correct course of treatment. If you are not sure about the severity of the injury, then it is better to consult a doctor once again to avoid unpleasant consequences in the future.

Prevention of bruised little toes

Bruised little toe is a fairly common injury that can be easily caused by walking, sports or household chores. However, there are ways to prevent such injuries.

• Choosing the right shoes. Shoes must be worn that fit properly and provide sufficient support for the foot. Lack of support can lead to discomfort and overload of the little finger, which increases the risk of bruising.
• Strengthening of the leg muscles. Regular exercise and stretching of the leg muscles prevents overload, which reduces the risk of injury.
• Little finger protection. When playing sports, especially contact sports, pinkie protection must be worn. It can be a special bandage or a sports bandage.
• Avoid unnecessary risks. When you perform any manipulation or work at height, you must take precautions to avoid falling and bruising the little finger or other parts of the body.

By following these simple guidelines, you will significantly reduce the risk of bruising your little toe. However, if you do get injured, see a doctor immediately for professional help.

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. Fractured 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 can 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. Do 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

It is mandatory to provide first aid 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 should an ambulance be called?

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 ice be applied 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.

Finger fracture treatment

Doctors treat finger fractures 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.

Immediate closed reduction	This procedure is done on patients who have a simple closed fracture of a displaced toe. First, the doctor will test the patient’s tolerance to a local anesthetic medication. If the person is not allergic to the anesthetic, the doctor will begin injecting the drug into the tissue surrounding the fracture. Then the traction of the finger along its axis is done. After this, a slow bending of all joints of the finger is carried out in order to reach an angle of 120 degrees. Next, the doctor will apply pressure to the angle of the injury until the bone is in the correct position. Then the doctor will fix it.
Skeletal Traction Methods	The procedure is performed only if the person has a multi-comminuted closed fracture of the finger. The doctor may prescribe a technique if, after a one-stage reposition, it was not possible to fix the bone in the desired position. The doctor will apply a splint to the hand and forearm, but with one modification. A reliable wire will be fixed on the palmar surface opposite the damaged finger. It will extend 2-3 cm beyond the top of the finger.
Open reduction	Doctors use this procedure as a last resort for a broken finger. It turns out that open reposition is a surgical intervention. Sometimes this procedure is the only possible treatment for a fracture. Open reposition is done with an open simple or multi-comminuted fracture with displacement. The procedure is often prescribed if the fracture has not healed properly. In this case, the bone will have to be destroyed and repositioned.

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.