Something as small as a jammed finger seems like it wouldn’t be that big of a deal but often times the smallest injuries can cause the most discomfort. Not only are jammed fingers painful, but they also make the easiest tasks harder than usual. Jammed fingers are commonly caused by sports like basketball or when you catch yourself during a fall. Usually immediate treatment is recommended in order to ensure that there is no further injury. If your finger is broken and you don’t treat it immediately it can lead to arthritis and possible become un-treatable.
If you’re not sure if your finger is jammed, the most common symptoms include:
- Pain
- Swollen finger (generally around or near the knuckle)
- Inability to bend or full extend your finger
- Numbness, tingling or pale color in your finger due poor circulation
In treating a jammed finger you have to make sure that you follow the proper steps to make sure that you won’t cause further damage. Remove all rings from your hand and then ice and elevate the injured finger to try and reduce and minimalize swelling. Leave ice on the injury for around 15 minutes and then take ice off until the finger has returned to normal temperature. If you have a minor injury you should be able to move the finger slightly after a short time.
If you’re unable to move your finger because of pain, or your finger is numb, it is important that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you make an appointment with OSR we can take an x-ray for you in order to see how bad the injury is and if a splint is needed. We also are able to apply kinesiology or buddy tape onto your finger in order to keep it straight while the tendons or bone heals.
During the healing process and with your physician’s advice, we will recommend a series of strengthening exercises to ensure that your finger mends quickly and properly. We will prescribe assisted finger stretches and finger bends, along with resistance exercises using a rubber band. This exercise regimen will focus on protecting the injured finger, strengthening it and maximizing your range of motion so that your hand can get back to normal functioning as soon as possible.
Make sure a jammed finger doesn’t leave you with a permanent injury. After seeing your physician, visit us. OSR is dedicated to making sure that your entire body is healthy. Let us help you get out of that jam.
