When a finger appears out of place due to an injury, there’s a natural impulse to “pop” it back into position for immediate relief. However, attempting to self-reduce a dislocated finger carries significant risks and is generally not advised.
Risks of Attempting Self-Reduction
Attempting to “pop” a dislocated finger back into place without professional medical training can lead to serious complications. The finger’s complex structure includes bones, joints, delicate ligaments, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels, all susceptible to damage. Incorrect manipulation can cause further injury to these soft tissues, potentially resulting in permanent problems.
One significant risk is incomplete reduction, where the bones are not fully realigned, leading to ongoing instability or improper healing. There is also a danger of converting a simple dislocation into a more complex injury, such as causing an associated fracture. Without an X-ray, it’s impossible to determine if a fracture is present. Attempting reduction with an undiagnosed fracture can worsen the break or introduce bone fragments into the joint, complicating treatment. Furthermore, structures like the volar plate or flexor tendons can become trapped between the joint surfaces, preventing proper reduction and potentially requiring surgical intervention.
Recognizing a Dislocated Finger
Identifying a dislocated finger involves several clear signs. The most apparent is a visible deformity, where the finger appears bent at an unusual or crooked angle. This misalignment is accompanied by severe pain at the injury site, which often worsens with any movement.
Swelling around the affected joint is common, often appearing rapidly. Bruising or discoloration may also develop due to tissue damage. Individuals will likely experience difficulty or complete inability to move or straighten the injured finger. While these symptoms strongly suggest a dislocation, only medical imaging, such as an X-ray, can definitively differentiate it from a fracture or other injuries like sprains.
Immediate Steps and Professional Care
Following a suspected finger dislocation, immediate first aid can help minimize further damage and discomfort. Remove any rings or jewelry promptly, as swelling will likely increase. The injured finger should then be immobilized, perhaps by gently taping it to an adjacent, healthy finger or using a splint to prevent movement.
Applying ice to the injured area can help reduce swelling and pain; wrap ice in a cloth and apply for 20-30 minutes every few hours. Elevating the injured hand above heart level can also help decrease swelling. Seeking prompt medical attention is important. A healthcare professional will perform an examination, order an X-ray to rule out a fracture, and then carefully realign the bones in a procedure called reduction, possibly using a local anesthetic. After reduction, the finger may be splinted or buddy-taped for several weeks to allow for proper healing and stability.