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First aid for a dislocated finger: immediate steps to take.
A dislocated finger can happen to anyone, whether you're catching a ball, working around the house or taking a tumble. This common yet painful injury requires prompt attention to prevent further damage and ensure a swift recovery.
Here's what you need to know about identifying, treating and understanding the importance of proper care for a dislocated finger at your local CityMD.
What does a dislocated finger look like?
Recognizing a dislocated finger is the first step to effective treatment. A dislocation occurs when the bones of a finger move (or are forced) out of their normal alignment.
Here are some signs to watch for:
- Visible Deformity: The finger may look bent or oddly positioned.
- Swelling and Bruising: The affected area will likely swell immediately and may bruise.
- Pain and Tenderness: Expect significant pain at the site of the dislocation, which might also feel tender to the touch.
- Limited Mobility: You may find moving the dislocated finger joint difficult or impossible.
Knowing these signs can help you act swiftly and effectively if you suspect a dislocation.
What happens if you leave a dislocated finger untreated?
Ignoring a dislocated finger and hoping it will "work itself out" can lead to several complications, including:
- Permanent deformity: Without proper treatment, the finger may heal in an incorrect position, leading to lasting deformity.
- Decreased mobility: Scar tissue can develop, potentially limiting the finger's range of motion and affecting hand function.
- Arthritis: Untreated dislocations can increase the risk of developing arthritis in the affected joint, leading to chronic pain and stiffness.
- Nerve or blood vessel damage: Delaying treatment can damage the nerves or blood vessels around the dislocated joint.
These potential outcomes underscore the importance of seeking immediate medical attention for a dislocated finger.
Treating a dislocated finger.
If you suspect a dislocated finger, follow these steps to minimize pain and prevent further injury before you can get medical help:
- Do not attempt to reposition the finger: Trying to "pop" the finger back into place can cause more harm.
- Immobilize the finger: To keep the dislocated finger stable, use a splint or tape it to an adjacent finger.
- Apply ice: Wrap ice in a cloth and apply it to the injured finger to reduce swelling and pain. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.
- Elevate: Keep the injured hand raised above heart level to decrease swelling.
- Seek medical attention: Visit an urgent care facility like CityMD as soon as possible. An X-ray will be used to assess the injury and make sure there is no fracture. Then, if needed, a healthcare provider can safely reposition the finger, assess for additional injuries and recommend further treatment or follow-up care.
Treatment options for a dislocated finger.
At CityMD, the treatment for a dislocated finger may include:
- Reduction: A physician will carefully realign the finger bones to their proper position.
- Immobilization: After reduction, the finger may need to be splinted or casted to heal correctly.
- Medication: Pain relief and, in some cases, a tetanus shot if you experience broken skin.
- Physical therapy: After healing, physical therapy exercises can help restore strength and flexibility to the finger.
Conclusion.
A dislocated finger is a severe injury requiring immediate medical care to prevent long-term issues. Knowing how to recognize and respond to a dislocation allows you to take swift action to ensure the best possible outcome.
At CityMD, we're here to provide the care and support you need to recover from a dislocated finger, with a wide range of treatment options and expert advice for your healing journey.
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We’re ready to care for you.
Visit any CityMD urgent care location in your community today for an evaluation with one of our expert providers.