A dislocated finger occurs when the bones forming a finger joint are forced out of their normal alignment. Many people wonder if such an injury can simply heal on its own. However, a dislocated finger cannot properly heal without medical intervention. This injury requires professional care to ensure correct realignment and prevent long-term complications.
What is a Dislocated Finger
A dislocated finger involves the separation of bones at a joint. Each finger, except the thumb, has three bones called phalanges, which are connected by two interphalangeal joints and one metacarpophalangeal joint at the base of the finger. The thumb has two phalanges and one interphalangeal joint. Ligaments, strong bands of fibrous tissue, surround and stabilize these joints, holding the bones in their correct positions. A dislocation typically results from significant force, such as a direct blow, a fall, or hyperextension, pushing the joint beyond its normal range of motion.
Why a Dislocated Finger Needs Medical Attention
A dislocated finger needs immediate medical attention because the joint’s complex structure prevents it from naturally returning to its proper position. The ligaments and joint capsule, which normally stabilize the bones, become stretched or torn during the dislocation, holding the joint in its abnormal alignment. A healthcare professional performs a precise procedure called reduction to gently manipulate the bones back into alignment, which is crucial for proper healing and function. Without this controlled realignment, the joint will remain unstable and dysfunctional.
Risks of Not Treating a Dislocated Finger
Leaving a dislocated finger untreated carries several significant risks and potential long-term complications, including chronic pain and persistent swelling that hinders normal function. The finger may also become stiff, leading to a limited range of motion and difficulty performing everyday tasks. Untreated dislocations can result in joint instability, making the finger prone to repeated dislocations in the future. There is a heightened risk of developing post-traumatic arthritis in the affected joint due to ongoing abnormal stress and wear. In severe cases, nerve or blood vessel damage can occur, potentially leading to numbness, tingling, or impaired circulation in the digit.
Steps for Proper Healing and Recovery
If a dislocated finger is suspected, take immediate steps before seeking medical attention. Remove any jewelry from the affected finger promptly, as swelling can make removal difficult later. Applying ice to the injured area can help reduce swelling and pain, and elevating the hand above heart level can also minimize swelling. Avoid trying to straighten or manipulate the finger yourself to prevent further injury to delicate tissues like ligaments, nerves, or blood vessels. Seek prompt medical evaluation from a doctor or an urgent care facility.
Medical treatment typically begins with an X-ray to confirm the dislocation and rule out any accompanying fractures. A healthcare professional will then perform a “closed reduction,” gently manipulating the bones back into their correct anatomical position. After reduction, the finger is usually immobilized using a splint or by “buddy taping” it to an adjacent finger for several weeks to allow ligaments to heal. Physical therapy and specific exercises are often recommended during the recovery phase to restore the finger’s strength, flexibility, and full range of motion. While many simple dislocations heal well, some discomfort or mild swelling may persist for 6 to 12 months, and full functional recovery can take several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the initial injury.