Finger

Dislocated finger tendon damage. Dislocated Finger: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Recovery Time

What are the common causes of a dislocated finger. How can you recognize the symptoms of a dislocated finger. What treatment options are available for a dislocated finger. How long does it typically take to recover from a dislocated finger.

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Understanding Finger Dislocations: Types and Anatomy

A dislocated finger occurs when the bones of the finger are moved out of their normal position, typically at one of the finger joints. To better understand this injury, it’s important to be familiar with the anatomy of the finger:

  • Metacarpophalangeal joint (MCP): The joint closest to the palm
  • Proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP): The middle joint of the finger
  • Distal interphalangeal joint (DIP): The joint closest to the fingertip

The PIP joint is most commonly affected by dislocations. Finger dislocations can be categorized into three main types based on the direction of joint movement:

  1. Dorsal dislocation: The joint is displaced towards the back of the hand
  2. Lateral dislocation: The finger is pulled sideways
  3. Volar dislocation: The joint is displaced towards the palm

Understanding the type of dislocation is crucial for proper treatment and rehabilitation.

Recognizing the Symptoms of a Dislocated Finger

Identifying a dislocated finger quickly is essential for proper treatment. What are the telltale signs of this injury? The most common symptoms include:

  • Intense pain at the affected joint
  • Visible deformity or crookedness of the finger
  • Swelling around the injured area
  • Redness of the skin near the joint
  • Numbness or tingling sensations
  • Difficulty moving the finger
  • Bruising (which may develop over time)

Is it possible to mistake a dislocated finger for another injury? Yes, it’s sometimes confused with a sprained or fractured finger. However, the visible deformity is often a distinguishing feature of a dislocation.

Common Causes and Risk Factors for Finger Dislocations

Finger dislocations often result from sudden, forceful impacts or movements. What activities or situations commonly lead to this injury?

  • Sports injuries, especially in contact sports like basketball, football, or rugby
  • Falls, particularly when trying to break the fall with an outstretched hand
  • Workplace accidents, especially in manual labor jobs
  • Motor vehicle accidents
  • Forceful twisting or bending of the finger

Are some people more prone to finger dislocations? While anyone can experience this injury, certain factors may increase the risk:

  • Previous finger injuries or dislocations
  • Participation in high-risk sports or activities
  • Occupations involving manual labor or frequent use of hands
  • Certain medical conditions affecting joint stability, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Diagnosing a Dislocated Finger: Medical Evaluation and Imaging

When a finger dislocation is suspected, prompt medical evaluation is crucial. How do healthcare professionals diagnose this condition?

  1. Physical examination: The doctor will assess the appearance, mobility, and sensation of the affected finger.
  2. Patient history: Information about the injury mechanism and past medical history is collected.
  3. X-rays: These imaging tests are essential to confirm the dislocation and rule out associated fractures.
  4. Additional imaging: In some cases, CT scans or MRI may be necessary to assess soft tissue damage.

Why is proper diagnosis important? Accurate diagnosis ensures appropriate treatment and helps prevent complications such as chronic pain, stiffness, or deformity.

Treatment Options for Dislocated Fingers

The treatment of a dislocated finger aims to restore proper alignment and function while minimizing pain and preventing complications. What are the main treatment approaches?

1. Closed Reduction

This is the primary treatment for most simple dislocations. The process involves:

  • Administration of local anesthesia to manage pain
  • Careful manipulation of the finger to realign the joint
  • Confirmation of proper alignment through X-rays

2. Immobilization

After reduction, the finger needs to be immobilized to allow healing. This may involve:

  • Buddy taping: Securing the injured finger to an adjacent finger
  • Splinting: Using a custom-made or pre-fabricated splint to keep the finger in place

3. Surgery

In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. When is surgery typically required?

  • Complex dislocations that can’t be reduced closed
  • Dislocations associated with fractures
  • Injuries involving significant soft tissue damage
  • Chronic instability following previous dislocations

4. Pain Management

Controlling pain is an important aspect of treatment. Options may include:

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
  • Prescription pain medications for severe cases
  • Ice therapy to reduce swelling and discomfort

Recovery and Rehabilitation After a Finger Dislocation

The recovery process following a finger dislocation is crucial for regaining full function and preventing future issues. What does the typical recovery timeline look like?

  1. Immediate post-treatment phase (1-2 weeks): Focus on rest, ice application, and following immobilization instructions.
  2. Early mobilization phase (2-4 weeks): Gentle exercises may be introduced to prevent stiffness.
  3. Progressive rehabilitation (4-8 weeks): Gradually increasing range of motion and strength exercises.
  4. Return to full activity (8-12 weeks or longer): Depending on the severity of the injury and individual healing rates.

What role does physical therapy play in recovery? Physical therapy is often crucial for:

  • Restoring range of motion
  • Rebuilding strength in the affected finger and hand
  • Improving dexterity and fine motor skills
  • Preventing complications like stiffness or chronic pain

Potential Complications and Long-Term Effects of Finger Dislocations

While many finger dislocations heal without significant issues, complications can occur. What are some potential long-term effects to be aware of?

  • Chronic pain or stiffness in the affected joint
  • Reduced range of motion
  • Instability or recurrent dislocations
  • Osteoarthritis in the injured joint
  • Deformity or misalignment of the finger

How can these complications be minimized? Proper initial treatment, adherence to rehabilitation protocols, and regular follow-up with healthcare providers are key to preventing long-term issues.

Prevention Strategies for Finger Dislocations

While not all finger dislocations can be prevented, certain measures can help reduce the risk of injury. What strategies can individuals employ to protect their fingers?

  • Using proper protective equipment during sports and high-risk activities
  • Practicing correct form and technique in sports and manual tasks
  • Strengthening exercises for the hands and fingers
  • Being mindful of finger positioning during falls or impacts
  • Maintaining a safe work environment in manual labor jobs

Are there specific exercises that can help prevent finger injuries? Yes, exercises focusing on finger flexibility and strength can be beneficial. These may include:

  • Finger stretches and flexion/extension exercises
  • Grip strengthening exercises using stress balls or hand grippers
  • Wrist and forearm exercises to improve overall hand stability

By implementing these preventive measures, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of experiencing a finger dislocation.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention for a Finger Injury

Recognizing when a finger injury requires urgent medical care is crucial. What signs indicate the need for immediate medical attention?

  • Visible deformity or misalignment of the finger
  • Severe pain that doesn’t subside with basic first aid
  • Numbness or tingling in the affected finger
  • Discoloration of the finger, especially if it appears pale or bluish
  • Inability to move the finger
  • Open wounds or exposed bone

Why is prompt treatment important? Delayed treatment of a dislocated finger can lead to:

  • Increased difficulty in reducing the dislocation
  • Higher risk of complications, including nerve or blood vessel damage
  • Prolonged recovery time
  • Greater likelihood of long-term functional impairment

If you suspect a finger dislocation, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek professional medical evaluation.

Differences Between Finger Dislocations and Other Hand Injuries

Distinguishing between a dislocated finger and other hand injuries can be challenging for the untrained eye. How do finger dislocations differ from other common hand injuries?

Dislocated Finger vs. Sprained Finger

  • Dislocated finger: Visible deformity, severe pain, limited movement
  • Sprained finger: Pain and swelling, but typically no visible deformity

Dislocated Finger vs. Fractured Finger

  • Dislocated finger: Joint misalignment, may be reducible
  • Fractured finger: Break in the bone, often with localized pain and swelling

Dislocated Finger vs. Jammed Finger

  • Dislocated finger: Significant joint misalignment
  • Jammed finger: Minor joint compression, typically less severe

Why is accurate differentiation important? Proper identification ensures appropriate treatment and prevents potential complications associated with misdiagnosis.

Impact of Finger Dislocations on Daily Life and Activities

A dislocated finger can significantly affect various aspects of daily life. What areas of life might be impacted by this injury?

  • Work performance, especially in jobs requiring manual dexterity
  • Sports and recreational activities
  • Personal care and hygiene routines
  • Household chores and responsibilities
  • Typing, writing, and other fine motor tasks

How can individuals adapt during the recovery period? Some strategies include:

  • Using assistive devices for daily tasks
  • Temporarily modifying work duties or sports activities
  • Seeking help from family or friends for challenging tasks
  • Practicing patience and allowing adequate time for healing

By understanding the potential impacts and adopting appropriate coping strategies, individuals can navigate the recovery process more effectively.

Advances in Treatment and Research for Finger Dislocations

The field of hand surgery and rehabilitation is continuously evolving, bringing new approaches to treating finger dislocations. What recent advancements have been made in this area?

  • Improved imaging techniques for more accurate diagnosis
  • Minimally invasive surgical procedures for complex dislocations
  • Advanced materials for splints and braces, offering better support and comfort
  • Innovative rehabilitation techniques, including virtual reality-based therapy
  • Research into biological treatments to promote faster healing

How might these advancements benefit patients? The potential benefits include:

  • Faster recovery times
  • Reduced risk of complications
  • Improved long-term outcomes
  • More personalized treatment approaches

As research continues, we can expect further improvements in the management of finger dislocations, potentially leading to even better outcomes for patients in the future.

Dislocated Finger | How to Fix, Types & Recovery Time

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Written by

Laura Henry, MD.

Resident in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery at the University of Pennsylvania

Medically reviewed by

Jeffrey M. Rothschild, MD, MPH.

Associate Professor of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Last updated October 1, 2020

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What is a dislocated finger?

Symptoms

Causes

Treatment & prevention

When to see a doctor

References

Table of Contents

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Written by

Laura Henry, MD.

Resident in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery at the University of Pennsylvania

Medically reviewed by

Jeffrey M. Rothschild, MD, MPH.

Associate Professor of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Last updated October 1, 2020

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Finger dislocation occurs when the bones of the finger are moved from their normal position; most often in the middle knuckle of the little, ring, middle, or index finger.

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What is a dislocated finger?

A dislocated finger is the result of one of the bones in the finger being pulled apart or sideways out of alignment. Finger dislocations usually occur when the finger is bent too far backward. Although a common injury, finger dislocations that are not treated properly can result in chronic pain, stiffness, poor function, and deformity.

A dislocated finger is usually painful, swollen, red, visibly crooked, may be numb or tingling, and may be difficult to move.

Once an X-ray has confirmed the dislocation, treatment often includes pain control via anesthetics, a reset of the joint, and splinting. Surgery may be necessary in cases of joint dislocation or associated fractures.

You should go immediately to an urgent care or emergency room, where a physician can “reduce” – put the finger back into place – safely. Simple dislocations typically require just buddy tape to a nearby finger. Complicated fractures (need an x-ray) would need immobilization with a splint. Following reduction, the doctor should ensure that blood is flowing to the tips of the finger properly. If he/she cannot put it back into place, they should consult a hand surgeon.

Symptoms of a dislocated finger

Due to damage and associated disruption of structures within the finger, the following symptoms are likely.

  • Swelling: Swelling surrounding the affected joint may be short or prolonged. The trauma to the joint disrupts the normal joint architecture and can lead to fluid shifts, thus producing the swelling.
  • Redness: The affected joint may appear red due to disturbed tissue.
  • Pain: Even minor structural damage to the joint as well as the associated swelling can lead to feelings of pain in the affected area.
  • Numbness and tingling: Branches of the radial, ulnar, and median nerves course across the joints extending to the ends of the fingers. If these branches are compressed, you may experience a sensation of numbness and tingling.
  • Functional impairment: This symptom can occur for a variety of reasons. The swelling in the affected area may inhibit movement without any underlying tendon or ligament problems. If you experience a dorsal dislocation or bend the finger too far backward, you might damage the flexor tendon, which allows us to bend our fingers toward our palm. In the case of lateral dislocation, the ligaments on the sides of the fingers, called the collateral ligaments, may be disrupted.

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Causes of a dislocated finger

The fingers, not including the thumb, contain three joints. The joint closest to the palm is the metacarpophalangeal joint. The joint midway down the finger is the proximal interphalangeal joint. The joint closest to the fingertip is the distal interphalangeal joint. The proximal interphalangeal joint is the one that is most commonly dislocated.

Types of dislocations

Dislocations of the hand can be subcategorized into dorsal, lateral, or volar dislocations, indicated by the direction of joint movement. Knowledge of the subcategory of dislocation allows the physician to apply the right direction of pressure when re-locating the joint as well as splinting.

  • Dorsal dislocation: A dorsal dislocation occurs if the joint is dislocated toward the back of the hand. This would occur if the finger was hyperextended and bent too far backward. A dorsal dislocation of the proximal interphalangeal joint is the most common finger dislocation.
  • Lateral dislocation: A lateral dislocation is the result of a finger is pulled too far sideways.
  • Volar dislocation: A volar dislocation is if the joint is pulled too far forward, or toward the palm. This type of dislocation rarely occurs and only ever does if the finger is simultaneously rotated.

Who is most likely to be affected

Finger dislocations commonly occur among young adults participating in sports activities such as basketball and football, but also occur around the home. Males experience this injury up to four times more often than females.

Treatment options and prevention for dislocated finger

Treatment will depend on the severity and type of dislocation, as well as further details of the diagnosis, described below. Treatments typically include some element of pain control and may include other non-surgical or surgical measures.

Diagnosis

To diagnose a dislocated finger, a physician will usually take X-rays of your finger from multiple angles in order to visualize the entirety of the joint. Imaging the finger is important for determining treatment, such as if the joint is amenable to closed reduction or popping it back into place. The joint should not be popped back into place if there is a fracture in any of the surrounding bones. Furthermore, imaging can help distinguish between a dislocated and jammed finger. A jammed finger will not have evidence of dislocation on X-rays or changes in any of the surrounding tendons.

Pain control

The mainstay of therapy of a dislocated finger is closed reduction. Pain control and anesthesia is an important first step in closed reduction. In older children and adults, a digital nerve block is usually sufficient for anesthesia. In a digital nerve block, an anesthetic is injected locally into the nerve of the finger so that you don’t feel pain in that area. Young children may require procedural sedation for closed reduction of dislocated joints.

Resetting the joint and splinting

Once the physician has determined the direction of the dislocation, he or she will apply force in the appropriate direction to reset the joint in place. All closed reductions are followed by the application of an immobilization splint. The type of dislocation also determines how long you should wear a splint.

  • Dorsal dislocation of the middle joint of the finger requires splinting for about three to five days.
  • Dorsal dislocation of the joint closest to the tip of the finger necessitates a splint for two to three weeks.
  • A volar dislocation of the middle joint requires a splint for about four weeks.

Surgery

Surgery may be indicated in cases of joint dislocation. Some potential reasons to pursue surgical management include a fracture in the surrounding bones, continuous joint instability despite the closed reduction, or failure to reduce the joint despite multiple attempts.

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When to seek further consultation for dislocated finger

You should seek further consultation if you experience finger trauma, as you will likely need X-rays to determine the diagnosis. You should seek immediate attention if the dislocation is so bad that the bone protrudes through the skin.

If you experience additional dislocation

You should also be aware that once a finger is dislocated, that joint has a higher chance of dislocating in the future with trauma or injury. After dislocating a joint of the finger, pain and stiffness can last for months.

Questions your doctor may ask to determine dislocated finger

  • Is your wrist pain constant or come-and-go?
  • How long have you had this pain?
  • Is your wrist stiffness constant or come-and-go?
  • Is your wrist stiffness getting better or worse?
  • How long has your wrist stiffness been going on?

Self-diagnose with our free Buoy Assistant if you answer yes on any of these questions.

Jeffrey M. Rothschild, MD, MPH.

Associate Professor of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Dr. Rothschild has been a faculty member at Brigham and Women’s Hospital where he is an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. He currently practices as a hospitalist at Newton Wellesley Hospital. In 1978, Dr. Rothschild received his MD at the Medical College of Wisconsin and trained in internal medicine followed by a fellowship in critical care medicine. He also received an MP…

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References

  1. Finger dislocation: What is it? Harvard Medical School: Harvard Health Publishing. Published February 2016. Harvard Health Publishing Link
  2. Borchers JR, Best TM. Common finger fractures and dislocations. American Family Physician. 2012;85(8):805-810. AAFP Link
  3. Golan E, Kang KK, Culbertson M, Choueka J. The epidemiology of finger dislocations presenting for emergency care within the United States. Hand (N Y). 2016;11(2):192-6. NCBI Link
  4. Leggit JC, Meko CJ. Acute finger injuries: Part II. fractures, dislocations, and thumb injuries. American Family Physician. 2006;73(5):827-834. AAFP Link
  5. Dislocated finger. Virtual Sports Injury Clinic. Published October 13, 2016. Virtual Sports Injury Clinic Link

Dislocated Fingers

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

In this Article

  • Causes of a Dislocated Finger
  • Symptoms of a Dislocated Finger
  • When to Seek Medical Care for a Dislocated Finger
  • Exams and Tests for a Dislocated Finger
  • Finger Dislocation Treatment
  • Medical Treatment for a Dislocated Finger
  • Follow-up Care for a Dislocated Finger
  • How to Prevent a Finger Dislocation
  • Outlook for a Dislocated Finger

Finger dislocation is a common injury. It occurs when the bones of the finger are moved (dislocated) from their normal position. A dislocated finger can occur in any of the joints of any finger, but it occurs most often in the middle knuckle of the little, ring, middle, or index finger.

A dislocated finger is caused by a “jamming” force to be applied to the end of the finger, or the finger may be forcefully overextended. Either of these situations or a combination of both, can result in a dislocation. For example:

  • During sports activities, a basketball or baseball may strike the tip of an outstretched finger.
  • Your finger might get caught in equipment such as a game jersey or pads.
  • You might fall onto your outstretched hand.

A dislocated finger is usually obvious. The finger appears crooked, swollen and is very painful. It may be bent upward or at strange angles. You probably won’t be able to bend or straighten the finger if it is dislocated. Also:

  • Numbness or tingling with a severe dislocation.
  • The injured finger may appear a pale color.
  • The dislocation may cause a break in the skin where the injury has occurred. If this occurs, you should get medical attention right away.

When you have a dislocated finger, you should see a doctor at once. Delaying a visit to your doctor for a finger dislocation can make final treatment more difficult and can lead to delayed healing or permanent disability.

Seek medical attention immediately if there is any loss of sensation (numbness), if there are any open areas of skin, or if the finger is cold, pale, or bluish in color.

The doctor will first examine the finger you have injured. They will X-ray the finger to confirm the dislocation and look for any broken bones.

It is not recommended that you treat a finger dislocation at home. A visit to your doctor or the emergency department is usually necessary.

  • If you have a dislocated finger, the finger will swell. To prevent further injury to the finger, immediately remove any jewelry, such as rings.
    Apply an ice pack to your injured finger and elevate the hand above the level of your heart.

The doctor may realign the dislocated bones of your finger with a simple technique. This will often require a local anesthetic injection into the finger to help decrease or stop the pain and allow the doctor to reduce the dislocation and realign the bones. You may also receive medications by mouth, injection, or IV to help the pain and ease the reduction.

  • Your injured finger will then be placed in a protective splint or be “buddy taped” to the healthy finger next to it.
    The doctor may get a second x-ray to confirm the realignment of your finger and to check for any broken bones that may not have shown up on the first X-ray.

Apply an ice pack to your dislocated finger for 20-30 minutes every 3-4 hours for the first 2-3 days or until the pain and swelling have subsided. This should lessen the pain and swelling that results from the finger dislocation.

  • Elevate your injured finger on several pillows while lying down or on the back of a couch or chair while sitting. This will help reduce swelling and the pain that results.
  • The doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication to help control the pain of your injury. Take only as directed by your doctor.
  • The doctor may refer you to a bone specialist in the week or so following your injury. The specialist will be able to monitor the healing process of your finger.
  • Your finger will be splinted for 3-6 weeks if the healing process goes well.
  • The doctor may give you exercises to perform during the healing process, which will help strengthen your finger and reduce the chance of decreased function of your finger.

Finger dislocations are usually the result of an accident and accidents are not always preventable. When possible, however, you should avoid getting your finger stuck in objects such as athletic jerseys, basketball nets, and football helmets.

Wear protective gloves when possible.

Remove rings or other jewelry before participating in athletic events and when working with your hands, particularly around machinery.

Most simple finger dislocations can be put back into place easily. Full function in the injured finger will usually return. Mild or moderate discomfort or disability can continue for 12-18 months. You may expect some permanent swelling or disfigurement of the injured joint. There is an increased risk of developing arthritis in the joint later.

Occasionally, a fragment of the dislocated joint or some surrounding tissue can become lodged between the displaced bones. This prevents the bones from going into place. Surgery may be necessary to put the bones into the correct position. Results of this surgery are usually very good, but some function may be lost.

Tendon injuries also may occur with finger dislocations, such as mallet finger, jersey finger, central slip injury, and volar plate injury. If undiagnosed, these injuries can cause permanent loss of function and/or deformities.

 

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Injuries / tears / avulsions of the flexor and extensor tendons of the fingers – Injuries of the hands – Treatment and recovery

For the proper functioning of the hand, the coordinated work of the flexor and extensor tendons of the fingers is necessary. There are no muscles in the fingers, so their flexion and extension is realized due to the tendons of the muscles that are located on the forearm. The flexor tendons are located on the palmar surface of the hand, the extensor tendons are located on the back side directly under the skin. Each finger has two flexor tendons, superficial and deep. The deep flexor attaches to the nail phalanges and is responsible for bending them, while the superficial flexor attaches to the middle phalanges. Injuries to the flexors and extensors of the fingers are quite common due to the predominantly superficial location of the tendons. When the flexors of the fingers are injured, the end of the tendon located proximally is pulled, because of this it is very difficult to find the ends of the tendon when it breaks. When the extensor is injured, the tendon practically does not move, therefore, it is easier to treat.

Types of injuries

  • Tears and avulsions of tendons
    Injuries to the flexors and extensors of the fingers of the hand are accompanied by a violation of their integrity with direct or indirect impact. In case of damage, a rupture and complete detachment of the tendon from its place of attachment to the bone fragment is possible.

    Injury Qualification:

    • Open and closed – depending on the violation of the integrity of the skin
    • Partial and complete – depending on the degree of damage
    • Fresh, stale and old – depending on the statute of limitations of the injury
    • Combined, isolated, and multiple – depending on the number of lesions
  • Inflammatory processes
    • Tenosynovitis of the hand is an acute or chronic inflammation that occurs in the synovial membranes of the fibrous sheaths of the tendons of the muscles of the hand and fingers. Tendovaginitis is accompanied by a crunch during movements, a slight swelling along the affected tendon sheath
    • Tenosynovitis (or de Quervain’s disease) is a disease in which inflammation of the tendons of the thumb occurs. The pain associated with this ailment arises from the friction of the swollen tendons against the walls of the tunnel intended for their movement, at the base of the thumb and under it, as well as along the edge of the wrist joint. It is manifested by aching pain in the wrist area.
    • Knott’s disease (trigger finger, spring finger) is a disease of the flexor tendons of the fingers and their surrounding ligaments, the characteristic feature of which is a clicking that occurs when the fingers move. As the disease progresses, finger extension becomes almost impossible.

Symptoms

With ruptures or separations, the following symptoms are observed:

  • In case of damage to the tendons on the palmar surface of the hand or fingers, there is a violation of the function of flexion, due to which the fingers are in an overextended state
  • Injuries to the dorsum of the hand impair the extension function of one or more fingers
  • Numbness of fingers and other sensory disorders (with nerve damage)
  • Finger deformity
  • Edema
  • Hemorrhage
  • Tendon injury
  • Visible soft tissue injury (open injury)

Which doctor to contact

  • Orthopedic traumatologist
  • Surgeon

Diagnostics

  • Detailed examination by a traumatologist of the injury site, diagnostic tests (flexion-extension of the fingers in one sequence or another)
  • X-ray of fingers
  • Ultrasound examination (ultrasound)
  • Magnetic resonance imaging

Treatment

With damage to the extensor, two treatment options are possible: conservative and surgical. Damage at the level of the fingers can be cured without surgery, but subject to prolonged wearing of a cast or plastic splint. In all other cases, as well as with injuries of the flexor tendons, surgical treatment is indicated. The operation is a complex surgical intervention, often using microsurgical techniques. It consists in dissecting the skin and suturing the ends of the torn tendon under local or conduction anesthesia. In the postoperative period, the arm is necessarily fixed with a plaster cast.

When the ends of the tendons are crushed or torn, they are excised. In order to avoid postoperative flexion contracture, operations are performed to lengthen the tendon in the tendon-muscular part or its Z-shaped lengthening proximal to the area of ​​damage.

In some cases, with chronic injuries of the flexor tendons of the fingers (the presence of tendon defects 2 or more centimeters long), the patient is shown tendon plasty, or plasty with preliminary formation of the tendon canal using temporary tendon arthroplasty with a silicone endoprosthesis. Most often, plastic surgery is performed in conjunction with other surgical interventions (tendon revision, tenolysis, etc.).

After any method of treatment of injuries of the extensor and flexor fingers of the hand, rehabilitation is necessary. For 3-5 weeks, the tendons grow together quite firmly, after which you can remove the plaster cast and, under the supervision of a doctor, begin recovery procedures.

Restoration of all necessary functions of the fingers includes: physiotherapy exercises for the development of the hand, physiotherapy, massage, salt baths and other procedures prescribed by a doctor.

In Moscow, you can make an appointment with qualified specialists at the NCC Clinic No. 2 (Central Clinical Hospital of the Russian Academy of Sciences). Waiting for you.

Treatment of damage to the tendons of the fingers in Kyiv – consultation price from 1000 UAH

Injuries are classified as single and multiple. They occur with cuts, bruises, open and closed fractures of bones, and other mechanical influences. Specialists observe frequent injury to the extensor and flexion systems.

Prices of the Department of Operative Orthopedics and Traumatology

Reception of a leading specialist orthopedist-traumatologist (doctor of the highest category) (consultation, examination)

1000 ₴
Appointment with an orthopedist-traumatologist (consultation, examination)

650 ₴
Repeated appointment with an orthopedic traumatologist

550 ₴
Tendon suture

18000 ₴

Our fingers and hands experience different stresses every day. Some of which lead to serious injuries not only to soft tissues, but also to tendons. Such pathologies significantly impair performance. Tendon injuries have their own specifics. They are unable to recover on their own. Surgery is required. Damage is classified as single and multiple. They occur with cuts, bruises, open and closed fractures of bones, and other mechanical influences. Specialists observe frequent injury to the extensor and flexion systems.

Orthopedic and traumatologists

To the doctors page

Alok
Bansal

27
years of experience
Doctor orthopedist-traumatologist of the highest category, Candidate of Medical Sciences, PhD, Honored Doctor of Ukraine

Kiva
Maxim Igorevich

7
years of experience
Doctor orthopedist-traumatologist

Zalozhnikova
Elena Ivanovna

27
years of experience
Chief nurse of the highest category

Primak
Irina Anatolyevna

24
Years of Experience
Senior nurse of the highest category

Popova
Dina Vladimirovna

eleven
years of experience
Nurse

Kozak
Natalya Alexandrovna

7
years of experience
Nurse

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Causes and treatment

Injuries to the flexor tendons of the fingers are much more common than other types of injuries. The main causes are cuts and deep wounds with sharp objects. The injury often has a deep character, which is a consequence of the loss of flexion functions. It is possible to restore work with a timely operation and long-term rehabilitation.

Injury to the extensor tendons of the fingers is less dangerous, but also results in poor hand and finger function. When receiving such an injury, it is very important to provide the correct first aid. It consists in applying a tourniquet, a sterile bandage and ice. All these actions are necessary to slow down bleeding. After that, the hand must be shown to the doctor to assess the complexity of the disease. Treatment is prescribed depending on the level of the depth of damage.

Damage to the tendons of the fingers requires immediate surgery. Quite often there is a need for microsurgical techniques. In case of serious injuries, doctors apply primary and secondary sutures.

Injury to the tendons of the fingers is a serious problem in which the sooner treatment is started, the sooner the basic functions of the hand are restored.