If you injure your finger, you might wonder if you can still move it if it is broken. However, a common misconception is that an injured finger cannot be moved if it has a fracture. Many types of finger fractures can still allow for some degree of movement, making it important to understand other indicators of a potential break.
Understanding Movement with a Broken Finger
A broken finger can retain some ability to move, depending on the nature and severity of the fracture. In cases of hairline cracks or non-displaced fractures, where the bone is cracked but remains aligned, surrounding muscles and tendons may permit limited motion. This occurs because the bone is not completely separated or significantly shifted.
Movement in a fractured finger will typically be painful. Pain experienced can range from dull to severe, and it often intensifies with any attempt to move the injured digit. In more severe fractures, such as those with significant displacement or open fractures, movement is often severely restricted or impossible due to intense pain, mechanical obstruction, or nerve compression.
Key Signs of a Finger Fracture
Since movement alone is not a reliable indicator, recognizing other common signs of a finger fracture is important. Severe pain is a consistent symptom, often worsening with touch or attempted movement.
Swelling and bruising are also frequent indicators, often appearing rapidly after the injury. The injured finger may exhibit tenderness to the touch or appear deformed. Other potential signs include stiffness, difficulty gripping objects, or a sensation of numbness or tingling.
Immediate Steps and Medical Attention
If a finger injury occurs and a fracture is suspected, taking immediate steps can help manage symptoms before professional medical evaluation. Applying the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) can help reduce pain and swelling. This involves resting the finger, applying ice, gently compressing the area, and elevating the hand.
Prompt medical attention is advised for any suspected finger fracture, especially if there is severe pain, visible deformity, numbness, or if the bone has broken through the skin. Medical professionals typically diagnose a finger fracture through a physical examination, followed by an X-ray to confirm the presence and type of fracture.