If you are like many athletes, one of the most common recommendations for an acute finger sprain is to “pull it out.” This should not be done. Pulling on any joint could create further stress on a newly injured ligament.
How do you unjam a finger?
Apply ice for 15 minutes, wait until the finger temperature returns to normal and repeat the process. After the swelling goes down and the pain diminishes, try to move the finger very slightly. If the injury is mild, you will be able to move it with little discomfort after a short time.
What is the fastest way to heal a jammed finger?
Compress the affected joint by wrapping it, and keep it elevated. Compression and elevation both help to reduce swelling. Elevation is especially important at night. In addition to RICE, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) every eight hours.
How long does a jammed finger last?
For a jammed finger: If you've jammed your finger, ice it for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, then immobilize it without the ice. If the pain is too uncomfortable or disruptive, take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as Ibuprofen. The finger should heal within one or two weeks.
Can a jammed finger be permanent?
An untreated jammed finger can lead to permanent difficulties. The most common complication is stiffness. A treatment team for a jammed finger often includes an occupational hand therapist to help with motion.
33 related questions foundHow do you know if fingers are broken or sprained?
Sprained fingers and broken fingers have many of the same symptoms. But broken fingers involve injuries to the bones, while sprained fingers involve soft tissue injuries. Broken fingers tend to cause more pain and need immediate medical treatment.
What does a sprained finger feel like?
Sprained Finger Symptoms
Pain in one of your finger joints when you try to move or use it. Stiffness in your finger or having a hard time straightening or bending it. Tenderness in your joint when you touch the area. Swelling in one of your finger joints.
Can a sprained finger heal on its own?
Most of the time a jammed finger will get better on its own within a week or two. But even with treatment, your finger may stay swollen or sensitive for many months. During recovery, try to use the finger as little as possible while it heals. Take a break from sports or other activities that could worsen your injury.
Should you go to the doctor for a sprained finger?
A person should seek medical attention anytime a sprained finger is excruciatingly painful, or if symptoms do not improve within the first 24 to 48 hours. Sprained fingers that appear misshapen, bent, or darkly colored also require medical attention.
Is my finger broken or just swollen?
Whenever you injure your finger, you may feel pain, swelling or stiffness when trying to move the affected digit. However, there are a few particularly telltale signs that point to a fracture: The fracture site is very swollen. The affected finger appears unnatural or deformed.
What happens to untreated jammed finger?
If left untreated, a jammed finger can lead to complications including prolonged stiffness or difficulty fully straightening the finger. Once the joint has had time to heal, a doctor may recommend exercises to reduce stiffness in the joint.
