First aid for a dislocated finger: immediate steps to take.

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:

1. Do not attempt to reposition the finger: Trying to "pop" the finger back into place can cause more harm.
2. Immobilize the finger: To keep the dislocated finger stable, use a splint or tape it to an adjacent finger.
3. 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.
4. Elevate: Keep the injured hand raised above heart level to decrease swelling.
5. 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.