FINGER DISLOCATION

Finger dislocations are common injuries that occur when the bones in a finger joint are forced out of their normal position. This often happens as a result of trauma, such as a fall, sports-related incidents, or impact injuries. Prompt medical attention is crucial to properly realign the joint and prevent complications, such as persistent pain or decreased range of motion. Timely treatment can help ensure a successful recovery and restore normal function to the finger.

WHAT IS A DISLOCATED FINGER? 

A dislocated finger occurs when the bones in a finger are forced out of their normal positions at the joint. This can happen due to trauma, such as an impact or sudden force, causing the ligaments and other soft tissues around the joint to stretch or tear. Dislocations can affect the alignment and movement of the finger, leading to difficulties in its proper functioning.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A DISLOCATED FINGER? 

The symptoms of a dislocated finger typically include noticeable deformity or an abnormal positioning of the finger, often causing it to appear crooked or bent at an unusual angle. Other common symptoms include:

  • pain
  • swelling
  • bruising around the affected joint.
  • difficulty or inability to move the finger
  • numbness or tingling may occur, which could indicate nerve involvement. 

HOW IS A DISLOCATED FINGER DIAGNOSED? 

A thorough examination of the finger involves reviewing your medical history, the cause of the injury, the timing and development of symptoms, hand dominance, any previous finger injuries, and your occupation and hobbies. During the physical exam, the medical professional will check for symptoms, the alignment of the finger, the condition of ligaments, nerve and blood flow, the range of motion, and joint stability. If a fracture or dislocation is suspected, X-rays from at least three different angles (front, side, and angled views) are important to get a clear diagnosis.

WHAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR DISLOCATED FINGER?

After the finger dislocation has been confirmed, your doctor will perform:

  1. reduction, which is the medical term for repositioning the bone into its proper place. You may be given a local anesthetic to numb your pain during the procedure. Your doctor will press against the bone to free it if a piece is still wedged into the joint, and then pull the finger outward to get the bones back in place.
  2. once your bone has been repositioned, your doctor will splint it to keep it stable. A splint prevents you from moving and possibly reinjuring your finger. You’ll likely need to keep the splint in place for a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the severity of your injury.
  3. in addition to a splint, or sometimes instead of a splint, your doctor may use medical tape to bind your injured finger to an uninjured one next to it - buddy strap. This method adds more support to the dislocated finger and may allow early motion to prevent joint stiffness and loss of motion.

In some cases, you may need surgery to reposition the bones and repair any fractures or torn ligaments. Surgery is generally only used when reduction fails to stabilize the joint, or if you have complicated breaks and fractures.

 

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM HAND THERAPY FOR DISLOCATED FINGER?

Treatment for a dislocated finger will focus on reducing pain, restoring movement, and strengthening the hand while preventing complications like stiffness or instability. The rehabilitation process will vary depending on the stage:

1. Early Stage Rehabilitation (Weeks 1-3)

  • Pain & Swelling Management: hydrotherapy, gentle compression, elevation 
  • Splinting & Protection: buddy strapping using our NRX or ARX straps, thermoplastic splinting to stabilise joint a prevent re-injury
  • Gentle Mobilization (only if safe): Controlled passive and active ROM exercises to prevent stiffness without stressing the joint.

2. Intermediate Stage (Weeks 3-6)

  • Progressive Range of Movement Exercises: exercise program designed to gradually increase how far the finger can bend and straighten - we might use our hydrotherapy hand bath to do these and you will gradually start using exercise tools to help you along .
  • Soft Tissue & Scar Management: Gentle massage & mobilization to break down adhesions if needed.

3. Strength & Functional Training (Weeks 6+)

  • Grip & Pinch Strengthening: Using therapy putty, hand grippers, or resistance bands.
  • Coordination & Dexterity Work: Finger tapping, pegboard exercises, or picking up small objects.
  • Return to Daily Activities & Sport Readiness: Functional training for work/sports-specific movements, training to improve joint stability.