Definition
A finger dislocation is when a bone in the finger joint moves out of its normal place.
| Dislocated Finger |
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Causes
This injury is caused by trauma from:
- A force that jams the end of the finger
- Forcefully twisting or bending the finger
- Forcefully bending the finger backwards
Symptoms
Symptoms may be:
- Swelling and bruising
- Pain
- A change in the way the finger looks
- Problems moving the finger
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. You will be asked how the injury happened. An exam will be done that will focus on your finger.
Images may be needed of the injury. This can be done with an x-ray.
Treatment
The finger bones will be moved back into place. A splint or tape may be used to hold the finger in place as it heals. Some people may need surgery for bones that cannot be moved back into place or the injury that is severe.
RESOURCES
American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine http://www.sportsmed.org
Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons http://orthoinfo.aaos.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES
Canadian Orthopaedic Association http://www.coa-aco.org
When it Hurts to Move—Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation http://whenithurtstomove.org
References
Dislocated finger. Sports Injury Clinic website. Available at: http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/sport-injuries/wrist-pain/dislocated-finger. Updated July 20, 2019. Accessed September 24, 2019.
PIP joint dislocation. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/pip-joint-dislocation . Updated June 7, 2017. Accessed September 24, 2019.
Prucz RB, Friedrich JB. Finger joint injuries. Clin Sports Med. 2015 Jan;34(1):99-116.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Warren A. Bodine, DO, CAQSM
- Review Date: 09/2019
- Update Date: 08/21/2020