Phone: 817-697-4038 Fax: 877-409-3962

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 happens when one or more joints in the finger shift out of place, restricting normal motion. Immediate medical attention is essential to prevent further injury. Delaying treatment can cause complications like increased swelling, prolonged pain, and potential damage to surrounding tissues. Avoid attempting to reduce the dislocation on your own, as improper handling may harm the 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 examine the injury, often using X-rays to assess the dislocation’s severity and check for fractures. The physician carefully manipulates the joint back into place, a process known as reduction.

After the reduction, the doctor typically splints the finger to maintain proper alignment during healing. Physical therapy may help restore strength and flexibility. Follow-up appointments ensure proper healing and joint stability. Early, proper medical intervention reduces pain, restores function, and minimizes the risk of long-term complications like chronic instability or arthritis.

 

What causes finger dislocation?

A finger usually becomes dislocated from an injury during a fall, sports, or an accident. The ligaments supporting the joint are damaged, causing the joint to misalign. This misalignment limits the range of motion and results in pain and swelling.

Seeking prompt medical care is crucial to avoid complications. After reaching a medical facility, a healthcare professional will examine the dislocated finger and may use X-rays to assess the injury and rule out fractures. The doctor will then realign the joint under local anesthesia through a procedure called reduction.

Following the reduction, the doctor often splints the finger to maintain alignment while it heals. Ice and anti-inflammatory medications can reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Physical therapy may also help restore strength and flexibility to the finger, ensuring full recovery.

By seeking prompt medical care, patients reduce the risk of long-term complications such as chronic instability, stiffness, or arthritis. Early intervention alleviates pain, restores function, and enables individuals to resume their daily activities more quickly.

What are the symptoms of finger dislocation?

You will recognize a dislocated finger if it appears crooked and you are unable to flex or extend it after an injury. Swelling and pain are common symptoms, along with possible numbness, tingling, and bruising.

Getting medical attention promptly is critical to prevent complications. After you reach a medical facility, a healthcare professional will examine the dislocated finger and may use X-rays to assess the injury. The doctor will carefully manipulate the joint back into place under local anesthesia during a procedure known as reduction.

After the reduction, the doctor usually splints the finger to maintain proper alignment. Ice and anti-inflammatory medications can reduce swelling and pain. Physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength and flexibility, ensuring full recovery and quicker resumption of daily activities.

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis

Physicians diagnose finger dislocation through clinical examination and X-ray imaging, which helps identify any fractures that may accompany the dislocation. Sometimes, a CT scan is also necessary.

Treatment

For acute finger dislocation, the physician will attempt to reduce the joint. After numbing the finger with a local anesthetic, the doctor performs a gentle reduction. If successful, the provider will splint the finger to facilitate healing. “Buddy taping” may also be used to connect the dislocated finger to the neighboring digit to enhance its range of motion.

If reduction is unsuccessful, the medical team will schedule surgery. This usually involves making an incision to surgically reduce the joint. A temporary surgical wire or splint may be necessary for several weeks after surgery.

During recovery, most patients benefit from hand therapy, as injured joints can become stiff. A hand therapist will guide the patient through exercises designed to improve 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.