FINGER DISLOCATIONS

If you’ve suffered from a serious hand injury or dislocation, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What is finger dislocation?

Finger dislocation occurs when one or more finger joints shift out of place, limiting normal motion. Prompt medical attention deems crucial to prevent exacerbating the injury. Delaying care can lead to complications such as increased swelling, prolonged pain, and potential damage to surrounding structures. Attempting self-reduction of the dislocated finger should be strictly avoided. As improper handling can cause further harm to joint cartilage, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels.

When a dislocation occurs, immediate steps should include immobilizing the affected finger and applying ice to reduce swelling. Medical professionals will perform a thorough examination, often including X-rays, to assess the extent of the dislocation and check for any associated fractures. Under local anesthesia, a physician will carefully manipulate the joint back into place, a process known as reduction.

Post-reduction care typically involves splinting the finger to maintain proper alignment during healing. Physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength and flexibility. Follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the healing process and ensure the joint remains stable. Early and appropriate medical intervention not only alleviates pain and restores function but also minimizes the risk of long-term complications, such as chronic instability or arthritis in the affected joint.

What causes finger dislocation?

A finger can become dislocated after an injury during a fall, sports, or an accident. When a dislocation occurs, the ligaments supporting the joint become injured, causing the joint to fall out of alignment. This misalignment restricts the normal range of motion and results in significant pain and swelling.

Prompt medical attention is essential to prevent further complications. Upon reaching a medical facility, a healthcare professional will examine the dislocated finger, often using X-rays to assess the extent of the injury and rule out any fractures. Under local anesthesia, the doctor will carefully manipulate the joint back into place, a procedure known as reduction.

After the joint is realigned, the doctor will typically splint the finger to maintain proper alignment during the healing process. Ice and anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength and flexibility to the finger, ensuring a full recovery.

By seeking immediate medical care, patients can minimize the risk of long-term complications such as chronic instability, stiffness, or arthritis in the affected joint. Early intervention not only alleviates pain but also restores normal function, allowing individuals to resume their daily activities more quickly and efficiently.

What are the symptoms of finger dislocation?

You will know your finger is dislocated if it becomes crooked and you cannot flex or extend it after an injury. The dislocated finger will also be swollen and painful. Additionally, you may experience numbness, tingling, and bruising.

Prompt medical attention is essential to prevent further complications. When you reach a medical facility, a healthcare professional will examine the dislocated finger and may use X-rays to assess the injury. Under local anesthesia, the doctor will carefully manipulate the joint back into place through a procedure called reduction.

After realigning the joint, the doctor will usually splint the finger to maintain proper alignment during the healing process. Ice and anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength and flexibility to the finger, ensuring a full recovery and allowing you to resume your daily activities efficiently.

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis

Physicians will diagnose finger dislocation by clinical examination and X-ray imaging to identify any fractures that may accompany the dislocation. At times, a CT scan may be needed as well.

Treatment

In the setting of an acute finger dislocation, reduction of the joint will be attempted. Surgeons will numb the finger with local anesthetic and perfoms a gentle reduction. If the reduction is successful, the medical provider will splint the finger to facilitate healing of the joint. Subsequently, they will use “buddy taping” to connect the finger to its neighboring digit, aiming to enhance its range of motion.

If reduction cannot be performed, the medical team schedules surgery for a surgical reduction. Typically, this involves making an incision to surgically reduce the joint. After the reduction, a temporary surgical wire might be inserted or a splint may need to be worn for several weeks.

During the recovery period, most patients benefit from hand therapy because injured joints often become stiff. The hand therapist guides the patient through exercises aimed at enhancing finger movement.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Hand and Wrist Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.