Jammed Fingers

If you suffer from a jammed finger, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is A Jammed Finger?

A jammed finger, also known as a finger sprain or finger contusion, occurs when the finger is forcefully bent or compressed, resulting in injury to the ligaments, tendons, or joint capsule. It is a common injury that can happen during various activities, such as sports, accidents, or falls.

The symptoms of a jammed finger may include pain, swelling, stiffness, tenderness, bruising, and difficulty moving the finger. The injured finger may appear deformed or misaligned in more severe cases.

Treatment For A Jammed Finger

Treatment for a jammed finger typically involves the following steps:

1. Rest: It is important to avoid using the injured finger to allow it to heal properly.
2. Ice: Applying ice packs or cold compresses to the affected finger can help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the initial 24-48 hours.
3. Compression: Wrapping the injured finger with a compression bandage or tape can provide support and help reduce swelling.
4. Elevation: Elevating the hand and keeping the injured finger above heart level can assist in reducing swelling.
5. Immobilization: In some cases, splinting or buddy taping (taping the injured finger to an adjacent finger for support) may be recommended to immobilize the finger and promote healing.
6. Pain management: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help manage pain and inflammation. However, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare professional if needed.

If symptoms persist or worsen, or if there is severe pain, significant swelling, inability to move the finger, or signs of a possible fracture, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can evaluate the injury, perform any necessary imaging tests, and provide appropriate treatment, which may include splinting, physical therapy, or referral to a hand specialist if needed.

It’s important to note that while a jammed finger is a common and often minor injury, proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.

Jammed Finger Recovery

Jammed finger recovery involves several steps to ensure proper healing and restore full function. Initially, it is important to apply ice to the injured finger to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Keeping the finger elevated can also help minimize swelling. Immobilizing the finger with a splint or buddy taping it to an adjacent finger provides support and prevents further injury. Over-the-counter pain relievers may be used to manage discomfort.

As the swelling decreases, gentle range-of-motion exercises are crucial to prevent stiffness and maintain flexibility. Gradually introducing strength exercises helps rebuild muscle and joint stability. If the injury is severe, with persistent pain or deformity, consulting a healthcare professional is essential for proper assessment and treatment, which may include physical therapy.

Full recovery can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the injury’s severity. Patience and adherence to the prescribed recovery plan are key to regaining full function and returning to normal activities.

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