Finger Dislocations

What is a finger dislocation?

Finger dislocations occur when the bones in your finger are forced or twisted out of their normal alignment. This commonly occurs in sports, where a ball hits the finger with force, or if your finger gets caught in a shirt during a tackle.

Dislocations can occur in any direction, and you may notice your finger appears crooked, bent, or misaligned. Do not try to relocate your finger yourself, as this may cause further damage. Please seek medical attention immediately to have it relocated. You can use ice in the early stages following your injury to help manage swelling. Once relocated, the ligaments surrounding your finger may not be strong enough to hold everything together. It is helpful to be mindful of the direction of force involved, as this assists us in diagnosing which structures may be damaged. Your therapist will complete an assessment to determine the stability of the structures holding your joint in place. If not already done, you may also require an x-ray to rule out any small fractures.

Common symptoms

•        Swelling

•        Pain

•        Bruising

•        Deformity of the finger

•        Difficulty moving your finger

•        Reduced strength

•        Tingling and pins and needles, or sensitivity to touch

Treatment options

•        Immobilisation via a splint

•        Compression support with a finger stall

•        X-ray referral or other imaging

•        Exercises to regain movement and strength

•        Modified activities to reduce stress on the finger as it heals

What happens if I don't seek treatment?

Hand therapy can help prevent complications such as chronic pain, joint instability, and reduced movement or a very stiff finger. Early treatment and care can help get you back to playing sport sooner, and pain free.

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.