Understanding Finger Fractures
A fractured finger occurs when one or more bones in the finger break. Many people mistakenly believe that if they can still move a finger after an injury, it cannot be broken. This misconception can lead to delayed treatment.
Understanding Finger Movement After Fracture
It is possible to move a finger even if it is fractured. This can occur for several reasons, depending on the nature and severity of the fracture. Some fractures, such as hairline cracks or non-displaced fractures, involve a break where the bone fragments remain in relatively stable alignment. In these cases, the bone is cracked but not completely separated or significantly shifted, allowing some movement, often with pain.
Pain tolerance also plays a role. Swelling can develop gradually over minutes to hours, which might initially allow for more movement before stiffness sets in.
Identifying a Finger Fracture
While movement does not exclude a fracture, several signs commonly indicate a potential finger fracture. Immediate and persistent pain at the site of injury is a primary indicator. Swelling often develops within 5 to 10 minutes of the injury, and this swelling can spread to adjacent fingers, making it difficult to move the affected digit.
Bruising around the injured area is another common sign. A noticeable deformity, such as the finger appearing crooked or shorter than usual, indicates a fracture. Tenderness to the touch and difficulty moving the finger without significant pain also point towards a break.
What to Do Immediately
If a finger fracture is suspected, first-aid measures can help manage the injury before professional medical attention. The R.I.C.E. method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is a recommended first-aid approach. Resting the injured finger prevents further damage. Applying ice wrapped in a cloth for 15 to 20 minutes every two to three hours can help reduce swelling and pain.
Compression, such as gently wrapping the finger with an elastic bandage, can help control swelling, but it should not be so tight as to cut off circulation. Elevating the hand above heart level can further minimize swelling by promoting fluid drainage. Temporary immobilization is also beneficial; this can be achieved by buddy taping the injured finger to an adjacent, healthy finger, providing support and preventing excessive movement. Removing any rings from the injured hand is important before swelling increases.
Professional Diagnosis and Care
Seeking professional medical attention is important for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment of a suspected finger fracture. A healthcare provider will conduct a physical examination, assessing the finger for deformity, tenderness, swelling, and range of motion. An X-ray is the key diagnostic tool for confirming a finger fracture, allowing the doctor to visualize the broken bones and determine the type and severity.
Treatment varies based on the fracture type, location, and bone alignment. Many fractures can be treated non-surgically, often involving immobilization with a splint or cast for several weeks to allow healing. For displaced or unstable fractures, a procedure to realign the bones, known as reduction, may be performed. In complex cases, such as multiple fractures or significant displacement, surgical intervention using pins, screws, or plates may be necessary to stabilize the bones. Following immobilization or surgery, rehabilitation, often including hand therapy, helps restore range of motion and strength to the finger.