Definition
Definition
A finger sprain is the stretching or tearing of ligaments that support the small joints of the finger. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones to each other.
Finger SprainCopyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.
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Causes
Causes
A finger sprain usually results from a blow to the finger causing the finger to bend too much or in the wrong direction. This often occurs during athletic activity when an athlete jams a finger into another person, the ball, or piece of equipment. Finger sprains may also occur in other situations, such as falling on the hand.
Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Factors that may increase your risk of finger sprain include:
- Playing sports, especially those involving the hands, such as basketball or volleyball
- Poor coordination or balance
- Weak ligaments
Symptoms
Symptoms
Symptoms include:
- Pain and tenderness in the finger
- Pain when moving the finger joint
- Swelling of the finger joint
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
You will be asked about your symptoms and how you injured your finger. The doctor will examine your finger to assess the stability of the joint and the severity of the injury.
Images may be taken of your finger. This can be done with:
Finger sprains are graded according to their severity:
Grade 1
- Stretching and microtearing of ligament tissue
- Stable joint
Grade 2
- Partial tearing of ligament tissue
- Mild instability of the joint
Grade 3
- Severe or complete tearing of ligament tissue
- Significant instability of the joint
Treatment
Treatment
In consultation with your doctor, treatment may include:
RICE Therapy
You will also be told to use RICE therapy. This involves:
- Rest—Take a break from the activity that caused the pain. This is often enough to clear up the shin splint within several weeks.
- Ice—Apply ice in 15-minute periods during the first 24 hours and for several days after if needed. Do not apply ice directly to the skin. This helps reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain.
- Compression—Wearing an elastic compression bandage may help prevent swelling and provide support for the shin and nearby soft tissues.
- Elevation—Keep the injured leg raised for the first 24 hours, including during sleep. If there is local swelling, this may help.
Medication
In addition to RICE therapy, you may take anti-inflammatory medications to relieve pain if recommended by your doctor.
Splinting and Taping
You may need to wear a splint to immobilize your finger. If you play sports, you may need to tape your finger to the finger next to it when you return to play.
Surgery
Surgery may be needed to repair a finger sprain if:
- A small piece of bone has been broken off by the injury to the ligament.
- A ligament is torn completely.
Prevention
Prevention
You can reduce your risk of getting a finger sprain by learning and practicing correct technique in sports and using proper equipment. However, in many cases, sprains cannot be prevented.
RESOURCES:
OrthoInfo—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons http://orthoinfo.aaos.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation http://www.canorth.org
References:
http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Sprains_Strains/default.asp
Published January 2015. Accessed June 18, 2015.
1/4/2011 DynaMed’s Systematic Literature Surveillance
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed:
Massey T, Derry S, Moore R, McQuay H. Topical NSAIDs for acute pain in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010;(6):CD007402.
Last Updated: 9/30/2013