Digital Nerve Repairs

Sep 7

2 min read

What is a digital nerve?

There are two digital nerves in each finger, running along either side of its length. Their job is to provide sensation to the fingertips so we can feel and touch objects, as well as sense hot and cold. These nerves can be damaged or severed during an injury to the finger.

Common symptoms include

• Numbness

• Tingling

• Loss of sensation to the finger or part of the finger

• Difficulty moving the finger

• Pain

• A wound from a laceration

A Hand Therapist at Riverina Hand Therapy testing the sensation on a lady's finger using monofilaments

What does a digital nerve repair involve?

A digital nerve repair is a surgical procedure to restore a damaged or severed digital nerve in the finger, performed to restore sensation and movement to the affected finger. This involves reconnecting the nerve ends directly, or using a nerve graft to bridge the gap.

What will treatment involve?

• Immobilisation or protection of the finger for a few weeks

• Exercises to regain movement of the finger

• Wound care after surgery

• Scar management in the later stages of recovery

• Managing sensation and desensitisation of the finger

• Sensory re-education exercises

A custom thermoplastic splint on a finger after injury

What is hypersensitivity and desensitisation?

Hypersensitivity refers to increased sensitivity or a heightened response to stimuli such as touch or temperature, which can cause discomfort, pain, or a tingling sensation. We use desensitisation strategies to help manage this. Desensitisation is a technique used to help regain normal sensation, involving gently exposing the skin on your finger to different sensations, textures, and pressure to reduce hypersensitivity and improve tolerance. Your therapist will help you introduce these strategies.

How long until I regain sensation?

Digital nerve repairs have a high success rate, with many patients experiencing significant improvement in sensation and function after the procedure. The time it takes to regain sensation varies; it may take several weeks to a few months to fully return after a digital nerve repair. The speed of recovery can depend on the injury, the surgical technique used, and individual healing ability. It is important to follow your therapist's guidance to optimise your healing and regain sensation.

Have questions about your hand or wrist injury? Our experienced hand therapists at Riverina Hand Therapy are here to help. Call us on 02 6925 0157 or visit riverinahandtherapy.com.au to book an appointment.

This information is general in nature and is intended to support, not replace, individual advice from your treating health professional. Everyone's injury and recovery are different, so please contact your GP, specialist, or your hand therapist at Riverina Hand Therapy if you have concerns about your condition.