FINGER SPRAINS

What is a finger sprain?    A sprain is an injury to a joint that causes a stretch or tear in a ligament, a strong band of tissue connecting one bone to another.

How does it occur?    A sprain usually occurs when there is an accident such as a ball striking the tip of the finger or a fall forcefully onto the finger.

What are the symptoms?    There will be pain, swelling, and tenderness in the finger. 

How is it diagnosed?    A doctor will examine the finger and will order an x-ray to be sure there is no fracture.

How is it treated?    Treatment may include:  1. applying ice to the finger for 20-30 minutes every 3 to 4 hours for 2 or 3 days or until the pain goes away.  2. elevating the hand on a pillow while lying down or on the back of chair or couch while sitting.  3. taking an anti-inflammatory or other pain medication prescribed by a doctor.  4. doing exercises to strengthen the finger during the healing process.

When can I return to my sport or activity?    Return to activity will be determined by how soon the finger recovers, not by how many days it has been since the injury occurred.  Your finger should be splinted or "buddy tapped" (taped to the next finger) for 1 to 4 weeks after the injury occurred.  In many cases, activity may be resumed while wearing the splint or having the fingers "buddy taped".

Finger sprain rehabilitation:
1.  Passive range of motion: gently assist the injured joint by helping to bend and straighten it with the other hand.  Hold each position for 5 seconds and repeat 10 times. 
2.  Finger lift:  With the palm flat on a table and fingers straight, lift each finger up individually and hold 5 seconds.        Then put it down and lift the one next to it until all 5 fingers have been raised.  Repeat 10 times.     
3.  Fist making:  Make a fist, helping the injured finger bend if needed, and hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times.
4.  Object pick-up:  Practice picking up small objects such as coins, marbles, pins, or buttons with the injured finger and thumb.

The Sports Medicine Patient Advisor
by Pierre Rouzier, MD
Finger Sprains pp 249-250