Broken fingers are one of the most commonly seen traumatic injuries in the emergency room. In fact, finger fractures account for an estimated 10% of all fractures.
Unfortunately, bones within the finger can easily be broken when compared to other parts of the body. Playing sports, punching something, falling on your hands, and hurting yourself on the job are the most common causes.
If you just recently injured your hand you may be wondering if your finger is, in fact, broken. The most obvious indication that you have broken your finger is a visible deformity or, with severe traumas, an exposed bone. Ouch! But, many times the symptoms aren’t that obvious.
Broken finger symptoms can include some or all of the following:
- Pain immediately after the trauma
- Limited motion of movement
- Swelling
- Numbness
To a child especially, diagnosing these symptoms in comparison to similar symptoms of injuries such as hairline fractures, sprains, or severe brushing can be very difficult. It is highly recommended that you get an X-ray for a professional diagnosis whenever you suspect a broken bone. A hand specialist will confirm the location and nature of the break.
If the injury is diagnosed as a broken bone, treatment will depend on the type of fracture and the particular location. Most often, broken fingers are treated by realigning the bones and casting or splinting to immobilize the area for several weeks. This permits a prognosis for fast and successful healing. With severe breaks, surgery may be required.
Because complications of a broken finger can result in long-term stiffness, rotation, nonunion, and infection, it is not recommended to try and treat yourself. Always seek out the expertise of a specialist!
If you are experiencing some or all of the symptoms of a broken finger, contact Dr. Rehman for a comprehensive evaluation and consultation: (586) 532-0803.
