Acute Finger Injuries: Part I. Tendons and Ligaments

JEFFREY C. LEGGIT, LTC, MC, USA, AND CHRISTIAN J. MEKO, CAPT, MC, USA

Improper diagnosis and treatment of finger injuries can cause deformity and dysfunction over time. A basic understanding of the complex anatomy of the finger and of common tendon and ligament injury mechanisms can help physicians properly diagnose and treat finger injuries. Evaluation includes a general musculoskeletal examination as well as radiography (oblique, anteroposterior, and true lateral views). Splinting and taping are effective treatments for tendon and ligament injuries. Treatment should restrict the motion of injured structures while allowing uninjured joints to remain mobile. Although family physicians are usually the first to evaluate patients with finger injuries, it is important to recognize when a referral is needed to ensure optimal outcomes.

The severity of acute finger injuries is often underestimated, which can lead to improper treatment. Basic knowledge of the anatomy of the finger and a thorough evaluation of the patient can ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Part I of this two-part article focuses on common tendon and ligament injuries of the finger. Part II¹ discusses common finger fractures, dislocations, and thumb injuries.

Family physicians can manage most finger injuries; however, knowledge of referral criteria is important to ensure optimal outcomes. Treatment should restrict the motion of injured structures while allowing uninjured joints to remain mobile. Patients should be counseled that it is not unusual for an injured digit to remain swollen for some time and that permanent deformity is possible, even after treatment. Table 1 summarizes the evaluation and treatment of common ligament and tendon injuries.

Clinical recommendation	Evidence rating	References
Patients with finger injuries should receive a minimum of anteroposterior, true lateral, and oblique radiographic views.	C	5
Patient compliance should be monitored when treating mallet finger with splinting, because it is imperative for successful outcomes. All splints for mallet finger achieve similar results.	B	15
Patients with confirmed or suspected jersey finger should be referred to an orthopedic or hand surgeon.	C	18
A low threshold for referral should exist for collateral ligament injuries in children, because the growth plate often is involved.	C	7,11

Injury	Examination	Treatment	Referral criteria
Central slip extensor tendon injury (may cause a boutonniére deformity over time)	Tender at dorsal aspect of the PIP joint (middle phalanx)	Splint the PIP joint in full extension for six weeks.	Avulsion fracture involving more than 30 percent of the joint or inability to achieve full passive extension
	Inability to actively extend the PIP joint
Collateral ligament injury (usually at the PIP joint)	Maximal tenderness at involved collateral ligament	Stable joint: buddy tape for two to four weeks. Do not leave fifth digit exposed if ring finger is taped.	Unstable joint or injury in a child
	Test stability of joint while the finger is in 30 degrees of flexion and the MCP joint is flexed.
Extensor tendon injury at the DIP joint (mallet finger)	Tender at dorsal aspect of the DIP joint	Splint the DIP joint continuously for six weeks.	Avulsion fracture involving more than 30 percent of the joint or inability to achieve full passive extension
	No active extension of the DIP joint
FDP tendon injury (jersey finger)	Tender at volar aspect of the DIP joint	Splint finger and refer to orthopedic or hand surgeon.	All
	Inability to flex the DIP joint
	DIP joint should be isolated during the examination.
Volar plate injury (usually at the PIP joint)	Maximal tenderness at the volar aspect of involved joint	Splint at 30 degrees of flexion and progressively increase extension for two to four weeks.Buddy tape at the joint if injury is less severe.	Unstable joints or large avulsion fragments
	Test for full flexion and extension as well as collateral ligament stability.

Basic Anatomy of the Finger

The anatomy of the finger is complex, but a basic knowledge is necessary to properly treat acute injuries. The index, middle, ring, and fifth digits have proximal, middle, and distal phalanges and three hinged joints: distal interphalangeal (DIP), proximal interphalangeal (PIP), and metacarpophalangeal (MCP). The thumb has a distal and proximal phalanx as well as an interphalangeal and MCP joint. The joints sit in volar plates (collateral ligaments attached to dense fibrous connective tissue), which provide joint stability. ^2,3

The dorsal extensor tendon divides into a central slip that extends the PIP joint and then into two lateral bands that extend the DIP joint. The volar tendons include the flexor digitorum superficialis and the flexor digitorum profundus. The flexor digitorum superficialis tendon attaches to the base of the middle phalanx and flexes the PIP joint. The flexor digitorum profundus tendon is located under and splits the flexor digitorum superficialis tendon. It attaches to the base of the distal phalanx and flexes the DIP.⁴Figure 1 illustrates the basic anatomy of the finger, including joints, ligaments, and tendons.

Evaluation

Neurovascular and active flexion/extension testing will reveal clues to tendon and ligament injuries as well as subtle rotational abnormalities. The neurovascular evaluation should include two-point discrimination and capillary refill assessments. The physician should evaluate active flexion and extension by asking the patient to open and close his or her fist.

Clinical examination alone cannot diagnose fractures, and treatment protocols depend on radiography results. Patients with finger injuries should receive oblique, anteroposterior, and true lateral radiographic views.⁵ True lateral radiography is the most effective way to examine anatomic joint congruity.^6,7 Ultrasonography is emerging as an effective tool to evaluate soft tissue structures.⁸

The evaluation of finger injuries during an athletic event differs from an evaluation in the office. The primary goal on the field is to detect neurovascular compromise and determine if the athlete can safely continue participation. All on-field evaluations must be readdressed in the office for a more thorough examination including radiography. Failure to do so increases the risk of future dysfunction.

Common Injuries

Several techniques may be used to diagnose common ligament and tendon injuries. Most injuries require splinting and follow-up to evaluate the healing process.

EXTENSOR TENDON INJURY AT THE DIP JOINT

Injury to the extensor tendon at the DIP joint, also known as mallet finger (Figure 2), is the most common closed tendon injury of the finger. Mallet finger usually is caused by an object (e.g., a ball) striking the finger, creating a forceful flexion of an extended DIP. The extensor tendon may be stretched, partially torn, or completely ruptured or separated by a distal phalanx avulsion fracture.⁹

Patients with mallet finger present with pain at the dorsal DIP joint; inability to actively extend the joint; and, often, with a characteristic flexion deformity. It is important to isolate the DIP joint during the evaluation to ensure extension is from the extensor tendon and not the central slip. The absence of full passive extension may indicate bony or soft tissue entrapment requiring surgical intervention.^4,7,10 Bony avulsion fractures are present in one third of patients with mallet finger.^11,12

If no avulsion fracture is present on radiographs, the DIP joint should be splinted in a neutral or slight hyper-extension position for six weeks¹³; the PIP joint should remain mobile. A Cochrane review^14,15 confirmed that all available splints achieve similar results. Furthermore, the use of surgical wires (i.e., fixing the affected joint in a neutral position by drilling a wire through the DIP joint to the PIP joint) did not improve clinical outcomes.^14,15Figure 3 describes different types of splints.

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Physicians should advise patients with mallet finger not to flex the DIP joint during treatment; the splinting period must restart every time flexion occurs. A Cochrane review¹⁵ showed that patient compliance is the most important factor in the success of splint treatments. The distal phalanx should be supported during splint changes.¹⁶ This is difficult to achieve alone, and the patient may need to return to the physician’s office for splint changes. Necrosis of the skin can occur if the DIP joint is overextended during splinting. If the skin blanches, the DIP joint is overextended. Allowing the skin to “breathe” for 10 to 20 minutes between splint changes minimizes the risk of maceration.

Patients may continue to participate in athletic events during the splinting period, and physicians should follow up with patients every two weeks to ensure compliance. After six weeks of splinting, the joint should be reexamined. If active extension is present, splinting can be limited to when the patient is sleeping and during athletic events for another six weeks.

Conservative treatment is successful for up to three months, even with delayed presentation.¹¹ Referral criteria include bony avulsions involving over 30 percent of the joint space or the inability to achieve full passive extension. Despite proper treatment of mallet finger, permanent flexion of the fingertip is possible. The finger can become deformed if the injury is left untreated. ¹⁷

FLEXOR DIGITORUM PROFUNDUS TENDON INJURY

Disruption of the flexor digitorum profundus tendon, also known as jersey finger (Figure 4), commonly occurs when an athlete’s finger catches on another player’s clothing, usually while playing a tackling sport such as football or rugby. The injury causes forced extension of the DIP joint during active flexion. The ring finger is the weakest finger and accounts for 75 percent of jersey finger cases.¹⁸ The injury can occur if the force is concentrated at the middle phalanx or at the distal phalanx.

A patient with jersey finger may present with pain and swelling at the volar aspect of the DIP joint and the finger may be extended with the hand at rest. There may be a tender fullness if the tendon has been retracted. The digitorum profundus tendon should be evaluated by isolating the affected DIP joint (i.e., holding the affected finger’s MCP and PIP joints in extension while the other fingers are in flexion) and asking the patient to flex the DIP joint. ^18,19 If the digitorum profundus tendon is damaged, the joint will not move. The flexor digitorum superficialis tendon should be evaluated by holding the unaffected fingers in extension and asking the patient to flex the injured finger.¹⁹ An injured flexor digitorum superficialis tendon will produce no movement. Figure 5 illustrates these techniques.

The prognosis for patients with jersey finger worsens if treatment is delayed and if severe tendon retraction is present.²⁰ Patients with confirmed or suspected jersey finger should be referred to an orthopedic or hand surgeon for treatment.¹⁸

CENTRAL SLIP EXTENSOR TENDON INJURY

Central slip extensor tendon injury occurs when the PIP joint is forcibly flexed while actively extended; it is a common injury in basketball players. Volar dislocation of the PIP joint also can cause central slip ruptures.²¹

The PIP joint should be evaluated by holding the joint in a position of 15 to 30 degrees of flexion. If the PIP joint is injured, the patient will be unable to actively extend the joint; however, passive extension should be possible. Tenderness over the dorsal aspect of the middle phalanx will be present. A delay in proper treatment may cause a boutonnière deformity (flexion of the PIP joint coupled with hyperextension of the DIP and MCP joints) (Figure 6). A boutonnière deformity usually develops over several weeks as the intact lateral bands of the extensor tendon slip inferiorly. Occasionally, boutonnière deformities occur acutely.

The PIP joint should be splinted in full extension for six weeks if there is no avulsion or if the avulsion involves less than one third of the joint. All available splints (Figure 3) can be used to treat PIP injuries, except for the stack splint, which is used only for DIP injuries. As with mallet finger, extension of the PIP joint must be maintained continuously. If full passive extension is not possible, the physician should refer the patient to an orthopedic or hand surgeon.

Patients with PIP joint injuries may continue to participate in athletic events during the splinting period, although some sports are difficult to play with a fully-extended PIP joint. Splinting duration is the same as with mallet finger.

COLLATERAL LIGAMENT INJURIES

Forced ulnar or radial deviation at any of the interphalangeal joints can cause partial or complete collateral ligament tears. The PIP joint usually is involved in collateral ligament injuries, which are commonly classified as “jammed fingers.”

Collateral ligament injuries present as pain located only at the affected ligament. The injury should be evaluated by applying valgus or varus stress to the involved joint in 30 degrees of flexion while the MCP joint is flexed at 90 degrees; an extended MCP joint will tighten the collateral ligaments, inhibiting the evaluation. The physician should compare the laxity of the injured finger with an unaffected finger. Radiography may demonstrate an avulsion fracture at the ligamentous insertion point.

If the joints are stable and no large fracture fragments are present, the injury can be treated with buddy taping (i.e., taping the injured finger, above and below the joint, to an adjacent finger) (Figure 7). If the ring finger is involved, it should be secured to the fifth digit, because the fifth digit is naturally extended and easily injured if exposed.

Patients with collateral ligament injuries may continue participating in athletic events as symptoms allow. If joints are unstable with active ranges of motion, patients should be referred to an orthopedic or hand surgeon. A low threshold for referral should exist for collateral ligament injuries in children, because the growth plate often is involved.^7,11

VOLAR PLATE INJURY

Hyperextension of a finger joint, such as a dorsal dislocation, can injure the volar plate (Figure 8). The PIP joint usually is affected, and collateral ligament damage often is present. The volar plate can be partially or completely torn, with or without an avulsion fracture. ¹¹ The subsequent loss of joint stability may allow the extensor tendon to gradually pull the joint into hyperextension, causing deformity.

Maximal tenderness will be located at the volar aspect of the affected joint. Full extension and flexion will be possible if the joint is stable. The collateral ligaments should be tested as with collateral ligament injuries. Radiographs may show an avulsion fragment at the base of the involved phalanx.

A stable joint without a large avulsion fragment should be splinted with a progressive extension splint (“block splint”) (Figure 9) starting at 30 degrees of flexion^7,22 for two to four weeks, depending on injury severity; buddy taping should follow. Increasing the extension of a dorsal aluminum splint weekly will progressively increase range of motion.²² In less severe injuries, the injured joint should be buddy taped. This will restrict some extension and provide support. These two techniques may allow a patient to continue participating in athletic events sooner; however, participation depends on the athlete’s sport and position; it is difficult to play some sports with a flexed PIP joint. Referral criteria include an unstable joint or a large avulsion fragment.

Finger Sprain | Middle Georgia Orthopaedics

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The bones in each of your fingers are connected by joints. A finger dislocation occurs when a bone in your finger is forced out of its normal joint position. With the joint separated, the finger loses most of its ability to bend and extend.

A direct blow to the hand, fingers, or thumb may cause a dislocation. Falls and contact sports, such as baseball and football, are commonly linked to finger dislocations.

Other factors may contribute to a finger dislocation such as:

• previous injuries that have damaged the bone or soft tissues (ligaments)
• using improper equipment during daily activities and exercise
• diseases that affect the joints, such as rheumatoid arthritis

A sprain is an injury in which ligaments are overstretched or torn. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect two bones together. Finger sprains occur when a finger joint is forced beyond its normal range of movement and a ligament is damaged.

Sprains are classified according to the extent of the injury:

    Mild (Grade I) sprains involve a tear of some of the fibers in the ligament. The finger is still functional and healing is usually rapid.
    Moderate (Grade II) sprains occur when part of the ligament is torn apart. There is some loss of function and healing will likely take longer than with a mild sprain.
    Severe (Grade III) sprains result when the ligament is torn completely apart or separated from the bone. Most finger movement is lost and surgery is needed to repair the damage.

What causes it?
Finger sprains are commonly caused by accidents, such as a blow to the finger or falling on an outstretched hand. They can also occur from activities that place repeated or prolonged stress on a finger joint.

What are the symptoms?
You may feel a tear or pop at the time of injury. This is followed by pain, swelling, and bruising in the area.

How is it diagnosed?
Your doctor will ask you about your injury and examine the finger. An X-ray of your wrist and hand may be needed to check for broken bones.

What is the treatment?
Conservative treatment usually includes rest and immobilization for the finger. You may need to wear a splint or have the finger “buddy-taped” to the finger next to it for approximately two weeks. Ice packs may be used for the first few days every three to four hours (10 to 15 minutes at a time) to reduce swelling. Your doctor may recommend anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and pain. You may begin exercises to regain flexibility and strength in the finger when cleared by your doctor.

Severe sprains may require surgical treatment to repair the ligaments. Postoperatively, you may need to wear a protective splint for about four to six weeks. Your doctor may also refer you for hand therapy with an occupational or physical therapist.

What is the outlook?
Typically, finger sprains heal well in patients who follow their rehabilitation program. Ligaments require from two to 10 weeks to heal. A small number of patients do experience complications such as re-injury, joint instability, arthritis, or inflammation where the ligament attaches to the bone. Your recovery will depend on your age, overall health, and the extent of your injury.

How to properly treat a dislocated finger at home: expert advice

Content

• 1 How to properly treat a dislocated finger on the hand: tips and tricks
  • 1.1 How to resuscitate a dislocated finger without a doctor: emergency tips
  • 1.2 Identifying a dislocation and its causes
  • 1.3 Immediate action for a sprained finger
  • 1.4 How to properly position your hand after a sprained finger
  • 1.5 Applying ice to relieve pain and swelling in a sprained finger
  • 1. 6 Traditional methods and recipes for the treatment of a dislocated finger
  • 1.7 Exercises after the treatment of a dislocated finger
  • 1.8 The main methods of treating dislocations: medical and surgical
    • 1.8.1 Medical treatment

    9000 5 1.8.2 Surgical treatment

  • 1.9 Compresses and products to accelerate the recovery of finger functions
    • 1.9.1 Compresses
    • 1.9.2 Products to accelerate the recovery of finger functions
  • 1.10 How to anesthetize a sprained finger at home
  • 1.11 How to prevent another dislocation of a finger in the future
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • 9000 4
    • 1.13.0.1 What to do if a finger is dislocated ?
    • 1.13.0.2 What are the symptoms of a dislocated finger?
    • 1.13.0.3 Can a twisted finger be pulled out by itself?
    • 1.13.0.4 What methods can be used to treat a dislocated finger at home?
    • 1.13.0.5 How quickly can a dislocated finger be treated?
    • 1. 13.0.6 Is it possible to continue playing sports after dislocating a finger?

As first aid and treatment for finger dislocation. Tips and advice from experienced professionals. Find out how to quickly and correctly restore your hand after an injury.

Finger dislocation is an unpleasant phenomenon that can occur with inaccurate movements or injury. And if you can’t get medical help soon, you should know how to properly treat a dislocation at home.

At the moment, medicine has reached great heights in the treatment of dislocations, but some methods are still traditional and effective. In this article, you will learn how to properly treat a dislocated finger on your hand at home without compromising your health.

The first steps to take after a dislocated finger may seem very simple, but they are extremely important for a quick recovery of health. As soon as you realize that you have a dislocation, you should immediately stop the activity that led to the injury and start cooling the finger. Next, it is important to follow the instructions presented in our article.

How to Resuscitate a Dislocated Finger Without a Doctor: Emergency Tips

A dislocated finger is a rather painful condition that can occur in any situation. But it is important to know how to properly provide first aid for a dislocated finger on the hand.

• First you need to make sure that the finger is not broken. To do this, evaluate the presence of swelling, bruising or deformity of the finger.
• Then you need to immediately stop the pain and reduce swelling. Apply a cold compress to the sprained toe, such as using ice.
• Pain can be relieved by gentle finger massage. To do this, lightly rub your finger between the palm and index finger of the other hand.
• Next, you need to try to return the finger to its place. To do this, gently, but decisively, and with the utmost care, opposite to dislocation, force should be applied to the end of the dislocated finger.

If the finger cannot be replaced, do not try again. In this case, you need to seek medical help as soon as possible.

A torn ligament or severely pulled muscle is usually treated with physical therapy. In this case, the doctor may prescribe a general and local anti-inflammatory treatment in order to quickly remove the swelling.

Definition of dislocation and its cause

Dislocation of the finger on the hand is a violation of the connection of bones, as a result of which one bone is no longer connected to the adjacent bone. A dislocation can occur as a result of injury, a strong blow, or sharp twisting of the finger.

Human fingers are made up of bones, ligaments, muscles and joints. A joint is a joint between two bones that provides movement and stability to a limb. A dislocated finger breaks the ligaments that hold the bone in place and allow it to move.

Dislocation of a finger can be caused by the following factors:

1. Injury or blow to the finger;
2. Violent twisting or stretching of the finger;
3. Severe tension in the ligaments and muscles during repetitive movements (for example, when playing sports or playing musical instruments).

Before taking measures to treat a dislocated finger on the hand, it is necessary to correctly determine its type and severity. In some cases, it may be necessary to consult a specialist and conduct additional examinations.

Immediate Action for Dislocated Finger

1. Immediately stop any hand activity that could aggravate the condition. Do not attempt to use the affected finger or hand, even if it seems possible.

2. Apply cold to the dislocation. A lollipop, frozen peas, or a cold compress will help reduce swelling and relieve pain. Do not forget that the cold should not be applied directly to the skin, but through the fabric.

3. Take a pain reliever. This can be paracetamol or ibuprofen, which will help reduce pain and inflammation.

4. Seek medical attention as soon as possible. It is best to contact a doctor or call an ambulance. Once you seek medical attention, do whatever your doctor advises you to do to minimize damage.

5. Hold the dislocated finger at rest. If you have a dislocation, do not move it too much. Don’t try to comb your hair or use your sore finger for any other job. It is best to take a couple of days off and stay calm to reduce stress on the affected body part.

How to put your hand down after a dislocation

Putting your hand down after a dislocation is an important step in treatment. For a few days, the patient must avoid movement and always keep the hand in the correct position so as not to damage the ligaments again.

If it is not possible to use a splint, you can put your hand on a pillow and wrap it in a soft cloth or bandage. This will help prevent re-injury and discomfort during treatment.

But do not abuse the rest mode. Even a laid arm has to take work to avoid muscle atrophy, high levels of inflammation, and speed up the recovery process. Light exercise recommended by a specialist can improve blood circulation and speed up the recovery of hand function.

Applying Ice to Relieve Pain and Swelling from a Sprained Finger

One of the simplest and most effective home remedies for a sprained finger is the application of ice. Ice should be wrapped in a soft cloth and applied directly to the injured area. Applying ice helps relieve pain and swelling and speeds up the healing process.

But do not abuse the use of ice, because the presence of skin diseases or bleeding can aggravate health. Therefore, if you notice unusual symptoms such as numbness, burning, and skin discoloration, it is recommended that you seek medical attention.

Traditional methods and recipes for the treatment of a dislocated finger

It is incredibly painful when a finger is dislocated. This can happen at the most inopportune moment when you do not have the opportunity to immediately contact a doctor. In such a situation, many resort to folk methods and recipes that can help relieve pain and return the finger to its normal position.

Traditional healers also recommend taking a handful of chamomile pollen and pour boiling water over it, wait until it is infused, strain and soak gauze in the liquid. Wrap her dislocated finger and secure. Using a gauze bandage will bring relief and reduce swelling.

• Non-standard method of traditional medicine – using fresh egg yolk. Many talk about its awesome effect, but it really works. The yolk of a creamy consistency is applied to the dislocated finger, and then wrapped in a towel and allowed to dry. Usually the finger returns to position in a matter of minutes.
• Sea kalanchoe – many traditional healers recommend using it to treat dislocations. A small leaf of Kalanchoe is fried in a pan and then tied to a dislocated finger with a bandage. This method is distinguished by its effectiveness and helps to instantly reduce pain and swelling.

But still, you should not completely trust only folk methods in the treatment of a dislocated finger. If the pain does not disappear and the amputated finger does not return to its normal position, be sure to consult a doctor so as not to cause further deterioration and injury to the hand as a whole.

Exercises after the treatment of a sprained finger

After the treatment of a sprained finger on the hand, it is necessary to perform special exercises to restore mobility and strength in the finger.

• Finger stretch: squeeze and unclench your fingers, then slowly and smoothly stretch each finger up and down for 5-10 seconds. Repeat 10-15 times for each finger.
• Band exercise: Take the band and wrap it around your finger. Stretch it by squeezing and unclenching your fingers, and hold for 5-10 seconds. Repeat 10 times for each finger.
• Grasping the ball: grasp the ball and hold it firmly for 5 seconds, then relax your fingers. Repeat 10-15 times for each hand.
• Finger inflection and extension: Place your hand on a flat surface, flex and extend your fingers, holding each posture for 5 seconds. Repeat 10-15 times for each finger.

It is important to exercise regularly after treating a sprained finger to regain function and strength in the finger. In case of severe pain or discomfort, you should consult a doctor.

The main methods of treatment of dislocations: medical and surgical

Dislocation of the finger on the hand may be associated with damage to the ligaments or joint. Medical and surgical approaches are used to treat this condition.

Medical treatment

At the first symptoms of a dislocation, it is necessary to contact a specialist who will prescribe treatment. As a rule, drug therapy includes the use of NSAIDs, the removal of inflammation, painkillers and antispasmodics. Medicines can be prescribed in the form of ointments, gels or tablets.

Surgical treatment

If conservative treatment fails, surgical correction may be required. Surgical treatment consists in the restoration of the ligaments of the finger and the restoration of its functionality. Currently, minimally invasive methods are most often used, which allow you to quickly restore performance.

• Surgical treatment is most often used in the following cases:
• Finger deformity that cannot be corrected conservatively.
• Frequent re-dislocations.
• Incomplete or complete inability to move the finger.

Compresses and tools to speed up the recovery of finger functions

Compresses

Compresses are one of the most effective means to improve blood circulation and accelerate the recovery of finger functions after its dislocation. To do this, moisten a cloth bandage in warm water with the addition of salt or eucalyptus infusion, apply it on a dislocated finger and leave for 15-20 minutes. This will improve blood circulation and speed up the recovery process of the finger.

Tools to speed up the recovery of finger function

There are various tools that can help speed up the recovery of finger function after a dislocation. To do this, you can use special creams and ointments containing components that promote tissue healing and improve blood circulation. It is also useful to massage the sprained finger and perform simple exercises to restore its functions.

It is important to remember that after a dislocation, the finger needs rest and restriction of movement in order to avoid tissue damage and speed up the recovery process. In case of severe pain and dysfunction of the finger, it is necessary to consult a specialist for additional treatment and rehabilitation.

How to anesthetize a sprained finger at home

A dislocated finger is a very painful sensation. Often there is a need to anesthetize the finger before downloading the treatment. There are several effective ways to pain relief at home.

• Cold application. Apply ice floes wrapped in a towel to the sprained finger. This method can help manage pain and reduce swelling. Apply ice to the injury site for 15 minutes every 3-4 hours for the first two days.
• Application of heat. Pain can be relieved by heating the dislocated area. Apply a heating pad to the dislocation for 20-30 minutes and the pain will become less intense.
• Taking painkillers. Taking pain relievers such as aspirin, paracetamol, or ibuprofen can help reduce pain and make you feel better.

It is important to remember that pain relief should not replace treatment for a dislocated finger. If pain and swelling persist, a doctor or traumatologist should be consulted for professional treatment and advice.

How to prevent re-dislocation of the finger in the future

After successfully treating a dislocation of the finger on the hand, it is very important to pay attention to the prevention of re-dislocation.

• Wear protective clothing and footwear. When playing sports or working, make sure that gloves or oversleeves are worn on the hands. And on the feet – special shoes that will protect against possible injuries and dislocations.
• Strengthen the muscles and joints of your hands. Regular exercise to develop muscles and flexibility of the joints will help reduce the risk of dislocations and injuries. Include arm exercises, play with a ball, do yoga or Pilates in your exercises.
• Respect your body. Injured or painful fingers should be allowed to heal and should not be subjected to excessive stress for several weeks after dislocation.
• Keep your fingers calm. If you suspect a finger injury, keep it still until you see a specialist. This will help to avoid the development of a more serious injury, including dislocation.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What should I do if my finger is dislocated?

In the event of a dislocation of the finger on the hand, you should immediately contact a traumatologist for diagnosis and proper treatment.

What are the symptoms of a dislocated finger?

Symptoms of a dislocated finger may include pain, swelling and redness at the site of the injury, impaired movement of the finger or deformity.

Can a twisted finger be pulled out by itself?

Never try to pull out a twisted finger yourself. This can lead to even more damage to the finger.

What methods can be used to treat a dislocated finger at home?

Home treatment for a dislocated finger may include applying cold to the injury, immobilizing the finger, regular exercise to restore mobility, and applying ointments for pain and inflammation. However, it must be remembered that this is not a substitute for professional medical treatment.

How quickly can a sprained finger be treated?

Recovery from a dislocated finger depends on many factors, including the severity of the injury, the age of the patient, and the complexity of the treatment. Typically, the recovery process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

Is it possible to continue playing sports after dislocating a finger?

It depends on what sport the patient is involved in. In many cases, after a dislocation of a finger on the hand, you can play sports, but only after appropriate treatment and the approval of a traumatologist. In some cases, it may be necessary to temporarily stop playing sports to prevent recurrence of damage.

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;
• antiseptic treatment for prophylactic purposes;
• 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.