Finger sprains can result in stretched or partially torn ligaments, and the severity can range from mild to severe. It is important to get a confirmed diagnosis from a doctor and appropriate treatment guidelines. Treatment may include immobilization, surgery, or physical therapy.
When doctors discuss finger sprain, they’re referring to any injury to the finger that results in stretched or partially torn ligaments. These injuries are certainly painful for all individuals who suffer them and must receive adequate care for healing to begin. Without taking a look inside the finger, it’s not always possible to tell what degree of ligament damage has occurred. Therefore, a person with a suspected finger sprain should always get a confirmed diagnosis from a doctor and appropriate treatment guidelines.
Like burns, sprains are often classified in degrees. The mildest are first-degree sprains, but there are also more moderate second-degree sprains and very severe third-degree sprains. The type of sprain tends to indicate an expected range in healing time. A mild sprain might take anywhere from a few weeks to about a month to heal, while severe sprains might take three months or more in healing time.
Typically, when people sprain their finger, it will be extremely uncomfortable at first and may swell. Bruising may occur and the finger may be painful to touch. Some people have a reduced range of motion or feel that moving their finger is very uncomfortable. While waiting to take the injured person to a doctor, it is helpful to keep the arm raised and icing the finger.
If a doctor isn’t immediately available, it may be prudent to create a splint to immobilize the sprained finger. This can be done with a friend’s or next door’s finger by joining the two fingers together. Do not use this method if other injuries appear to be present, such as a dislocated finger joint.
Once a person arrives at a doctor’s office or other medical facility, the medical team will determine how to best diagnose the finger sprain. X-rays may be needed, or what appears to be a minor sprain may simply be inspected and splinted. Many doctors ask people with milder sprains to double check before they stop wearing the splint, particularly if they participate in activities that have a high rate of finger sprains, such as many sports.
In rare circumstances, when a third-degree finger sprain is present, doctors may need to do more. Immobilization is one option, but another is surgery to repair the excessive tear in the ligament that otherwise may not heal properly. After people have that surgery, they may need physical therapy before they’re cleared to return to certain activities.
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