Finger Dislocation
(Dislocated finger; Dislocation, Finger)
Definition
A finger dislocation occurs when the bones that normally fit are no longer aligned properly. This often also implies stretching or damage to the ligaments. Dislocation can happen in any of the joints in the fingers.
Finger Dislocation With Swelling
Causes
A dislocated finger is usually caused by:
- A jamming force applied to the end of the finger
- Finger being forcefully twisted or bent
- Finger being overextended
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a dislocated finger. Risk factors include:
- Contact sports
- Previous finger dislocation or sprain
- Catching a ball on the tip of the finger
Symptoms
Symptoms include:
- Severe pain
- Crooked or awkwardly bent finger
- Swelling and bruising in the injured area
- Numbness and/or tingling of the finger
- Inability to bend or straighten the finger
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and how the injury occurred. The injured finger will also be examined.
Tests may include:
- X-ray —a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body, especially bones, to confirm that the finger is dislocated and not broken
Treatment
Seek medical care right away. Do not try to put your finger bones back into place. If you wait for treatment, you could cause permanent damage.
Treatment includes:
- Realigning the bones—The doctor will move the finger bones back into place. You may be given an injection of local anesthesia to help reduce pain.
- Splint or taping—After the doctor has realigned the bones, your finger will be placed in a splint or taped to the healthy finger next to it. In some cases, a cast or surgery may be needed. At times, a pin is inserted to hold the bones in place.
- Ice—Apply ice or a cold pack to your finger for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day for several days. This helps reduce pain and swelling. Wrap the ice or cold pack in a towel. Do not apply the ice directly to your skin.
- Elevation—Try to hold the injured hand above the level of your heart. This is to help the swelling go down. For example, place your hand up on a pillow. Using a sling for a few days keeps the hand somewhat elevated.
- Rehabilitation exercises—Begin exercises to restore range of motion and strength in your finger.
- Pain medication
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
http://www.aaos.org
The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine
http://www.sportsmed.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Orthopaedic Association
http://www.coa-aco.org/
Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation
http://www.canorth.org/
References:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: http://www.aaos.org Accessed June 19, 2008.
Dislocated finger. Emedicine website. Available at: http://www.emedicine.com . Updated August 2005. Accessed June 19, 2008.
Finger dislocation. UK Healthcare website. Available at: http://ukhealthcare.uky.edu/Ortho/fact_sheets/finger_disloc.htm . Updated January 2007. Accessed June 19, 2008.
Finger (PIP joint) dislocation. National Center for Emergency Medicine Informatics website. Available at: http://www.ncemi.org/cse/cse0926.htm . Accessed June 19, 2008.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at: http://www.niams.nih.gov/ . Accessed June 19, 2008.
Last reviewed November 2008 by John C. Keel, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Copyright © 2007 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.