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Finger SprainDefinitionA finger sprain is stretching or tearing of the ligaments that support the small joints of the finger. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones to each other. Finger Sprain  © 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. CausesA finger sprain usually results from a blow to the finger. 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 FactorsA risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting an injury. Risk factors for a finger sprain include:
SymptomsSymptoms include:
DiagnosisThe doctor will ask 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. Tests may include:
Finger sprains are graded according to their severity: Grade 1
Grade 2
Grade 3
TreatmentIn consultation with your doctor, treatment may include: RestAvoid using the injured finger. IceApply ice or a cold pack to your finger for 15-20 minutes, four times a day, for several days or until the pain and swelling goes away. Ice helps to reduce pain and swelling in the sprained finger. Wrap the ice or cold pack in a towel. Do not apply the ice directly to your skin. CompressionWrap an elastic compression bandage around your finger. This will limit swelling and support your finger. Be careful not to wrap too tightly because it can cut off the circulation to your finger. ElevationTry to hold the injured hand above the level of your heart as much as possible for the first several days or until the swelling goes down. (For example, place your hand up on a pillow.) This will help drain fluid and reduce swelling. MedicationIn consultation with your doctor, consider taking one of the following over-the-counter (OTC) drugs to help reduce inflammation and pain:
Your doctor may prescribe a stronger drug if the OTC drugs do not help with the pain. Splinting and TapingYou 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. Your doctor can show you how to splint or tape your finger. SurgerySurgery may be needed to repair a finger sprain if:
If you are diagnosed with a finger sprain, follow your doctor's instructions . RESOURCES: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine CANADIAN RESOURCES: Canadian Orthopaedic Association Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation References: Association of Professional Team Physicians website. Available at: http://www.orthopaedicweblinks.com/Detailed/1399.html . Accessed July 7, 2009. Renstrom P. Sports Injuries: Basic Principles of Prevention and Care. Boston, MA: Blackwell Scientific Publications; 1993. Sprains and strains. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at: http://www.niams.nih.gov/ . Published April 2009. Accessed July 7, 2009. Last reviewed September 2009 by Robert E. Leach, MD Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2009 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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