How to tell if your Finger is Broken

Explained medically, a broken finger, or finger fracture, is a break in any of the bones in a finger. Each finger consists of three bones called the phalanges. The thumb has only two phalanges!  The most common finger fractures is the distal phalanx, followed by the proximal and middle phalanges.

It has probably happened to you before. You've been trying to catch a basketball and had your hand funny, or just wasn't ready, and the ball slammed straight at the tip of the finger. It hurts like crazy, and feels a little numb to you for a minute. Ouch. The finger could be simply jammed, but you've jammed your finger before, and this doesn't look like a jam. The finger is jutting out a different direction, or has a displacement on one of the middle phalanges.
Broken / Fractured fingers are very common in sports, more common among children. 

What are the symptoms of a Finger Fracture?
- Swelling and tenderness over the site of the fracture.
- Deformity of the finger.
- Pain in the fingers when trying to manipulate them.

- Decreased range of motion with the injured finger.

Pain, swelling, loss of motion and strength loss are common symptoms of a broken finger.

Example of a broken pinky

Treatment of a Broken Finger / Finger Fracture- Temporary immobilization in a splint or cast for 3 weeks.
- Do not immobilize longer than recommended, this may cause increased stiffness.
- Proper usage of NSAIDS to help alleviate any pain.
- Remember to remove any jewelry from the affected hand before applying a splint!




Common Questions: 

When should I see a doctor for a broken finger?

• After injury, if pain or swelling limits the motion or use of the fingers, or if the finger becomes numb, seek medical care.
• If the injury to the finger includes alaceration, crushed tissue, or exposure of bone, the individual should go to an emergency department for immediate medical care.
• Some fractures of the fingers may be subtle and the pain may be tolerable, so if a person suspects that they may have a finger fracture, seek medical attention.

Physiotherapy treatment for broken / fractured fingers may include:

• Ice therapy to reduce swelling and pain
• Ultrasound treatment to promote the healing process
• Strengthening; dexterity exercises to improve strength and function
• Lifestyle advice for activity modification to reduce risk of re-injury
• Sport and function specific rehabilitation
• Hot wax treatment to reduce stiffness

Tips to shorten healing time of a Broken / Fractured finger:

• Act immediately after the fracture occurs and remove any jewelry adorned in the dislocated finger. As the affected portion swells up, it may be difficult to remove afterward. And wearing a tight ring will negatively affect blood circulation and overall broken finger healing process. In case of already swollen fingers, applying ice and cold compresses will help in reducing inflammation. Discussed below are some effectual tips concerning treatment and recovery of a broken finger.
• The first and foremost thing is to use a finger splint. This helps in immobilizing the fractured bone and aligning the adjacent bones properly.
• In case of severe pain, applying ice packs for about 15 minutes is a good remedy to get instant relief. It numbs the swollen finger and reduces inflammation.
• Continue applying cold compresses or ice packs for the first 15 days. Reducing swelling and inflammation of the area is an effective remedy to promote quick healing.
• Wearing a finger sling for the injured one reduces pressure in the affected portion. Hence, if possible, use both finger splint and sling to shorten the recovery period.
• Most probably, the doctor will recommend wearing of the finger splint for 2-3 weeks, by which time the fractured bone heals. Usually, the splint is removed after three weeks.
• Last but not the least, follow the guidelines recommended by the orthopedic or general physician in order to ensure quick healing and complete recovery of the broken finger.

It requires only that you broke or fractured your finger. There are many splints and other bandages available to help heal your broken finger, and they're pretty reasonably priced! Fingers sometimes are overlooked but very important for sports and much of your life. Do yourself a favor and take care of your fingers. 

Xray of broken pinky

If you are wondering what to do if you think you have a broken or jammed toe, check out Broken Toe Help!