Finger Fracture Treatment
Finger fractures may look minor, but if they heal badly they can cause lasting loss of hand function. Healing in the right position and early movement are essential.
The hand is one of the parts of the body we use most, and finger fractures are common injuries. A ball striking the finger in sport, falls, fingers caught in doors and workplace accidents are the main causes. Although finger fractures may seem minor, malunion or joint stiffness can permanently affect grip and fine hand skills.
Symptoms
- Pain, swelling and bruising in the finger
- A finger that looks crooked or short
- The finger crossing over the others when making a fist (rotational deformity)
- Inability to bend or straighten the finger
- Blood under the nail (nail bed injury)
Diagnosis
The alignment of the finger is checked, especially whether the fingers all point to the same spot when making a fist. X-rays from different angles show the site and type of fracture. Tendon and ligament injuries are also checked.
Treatment
Non-surgical treatment
Most undisplaced, stable fractures are treated with a splint or cast. For some fractures, taping the finger to its neighbour (buddy taping) is enough. Protection is kept as short as possible to prevent stiffness.
Closed reduction
Some displaced fractures can be realigned from the outside under local anaesthesia and held with a splint.
Surgery
Surgery may be needed for:
- Rotational deformity of the finger
- Fractures that disrupt the joint surface
- Unstable fractures that a cast cannot hold
- Open fractures and fractures with tendon injury
The fracture is fixed with small wires (K-wires), screws or mini plates. Stable fixation allows early movement.
Recovery and hand therapy
In finger fractures the bone usually heals within a few weeks, but movement and strength take longer to return fully. Hand therapy and regular exercises are very important in preventing stiffness. Swelling can take months to settle completely.
Nail bed injuries
When a fingertip is crushed, the nail bed may also be injured. If there is a large collection of blood under the nail or the nail has been displaced, repairing the nail bed is important for the nail to grow normally later.
Finger fractures in athletes
Finger fractures are common in ball sports. With some fractures, an early return is possible with suitable splints or taping; for fractures inside joints and unstable fractures, the bone must heal enough before returning to play. Returning early can cause the fracture to shift.
Frequently asked questions
Won't a finger fracture heal on its own?
It can, but if it heals in the wrong position the finger may stay crooked or cross over others when you make a fist. This is why assessment matters.
How long will I wear a splint?
Usually a few weeks, depending on the fracture. It is kept as short as possible to avoid stiffness.
Why is my finger still swollen?
After finger fractures, swelling can last for weeks or even months after the bone has healed. Regular exercise and hand therapy speed this up.
Why can't I fully bend my finger after a fracture?
The fracture and surrounding swelling can restrict the joint and tendons. With regular exercise and hand therapy, movement usually improves gradually.
Should I remove my ring after a finger fracture?
Yes. As swelling increases, the ring can squeeze the finger and affect circulation. Remove it as soon as possible, before the swelling increases.
Can I drive with a finger fracture?
Do not drive if the splint or cast stops you holding the wheel safely. Your situation can be assessed with your doctor.
The information on this page is general and does not replace an examination. An examination is needed to decide which treatment suits you.