stiffness after the provocative activity, particularly the next morning. Symptoms may be felt on the front, back or sides of the affected finger joint. There may be an audible snap or pop sound at the time of injury. Swelling or bruising will often develop around the affected joint. Symptoms are generally exacerbated with activities that involve use of the hand and fingers such as catching balls, opening jars or doors, writing, typing, picking up heavy objects, general gripping activity, cooking, household activities or placing weight through the affected hand and fingers. It is also common for patients to experience pain on firmly touching the affected region, and, in some cases, a feeling of weakness in the hand and fingers may also be present. In severe cases, the finger may be completely dislocated. All dislocations need to be managed by a medical professional and should be X-rayed before and after being put back into place to confirm relocation and to exclude fracture.
Diagnosis of a sprained finger
A thorough subjective and objective examination from a physiotherapist is usually sufficient to diagnose a sprained finger and to determine the likely structures affected. Investigations such as an X-ray, MRI or CT scan may be required to confirm diagnosis and rule out other injuries (particularly fractures). Generally all traumatic finger injuries should be X-rayed.
Treatment for a sprained finger
Most patients with a sprained finger make a good recovery with appropriate physiotherapy. One of the key components of treatment is that the patient rests sufficiently from ANY activity that increases their pain until they are symptom free. Protective taping or a protective brace is often required for a period of time to stabilize the joint and protect it from further damage.
Rest from aggravating activities ensures the body can begin the healing process in the absence of further tissue damage. Once the patient can perform these activities pain free, a gradual return to these activities is indicated provided there is no increase in symptoms.
Treatment of a finger sprain in the first 48 – 72 hours is vital to reduce bleeding, swelling and inflammation. This should involve following the R.I.C.E regime which comprises of rest from aggravating activities, regular icing, the use of a compression bandage and elevation of the affected limb. Anti-inflammatory medication may also be useful in this initial phase of injury and can hasten the healing process by reducing the pain and swelling associated with inflammation.
It is also important for patients with this condition to perform movement and strength exercises early in the rehabilitation process to prevent stiffness and weakness from developing and to ensure the finger is functioning correctly. These exercises should generally be implemented as soon as pain allows and should be guided by the treating physiotherapist. A gradual return to activity should occur once the patient is pain-free, provided symptoms do not increase.
Prognosis of a sprained finger
In cases of a minor to moderate finger sprain, return to sport or normal activity can usually occur in 2 – 6 weeks with appropriate management and treatment. Patients with a more severe injury will usually require a longer period of rehabilitation to gain optimum function.
Physiotherapy for a sprained finger
Physiotherapy for a sprained finger can hasten the healing process, ensure an optimal outcome and reduce the likelihood of recurrence. Treatment may comprise:
- soft tissue massage
- electrotherapy (e.g. ultrasound)
- anti-inflammatory advice
- joint mobilization
- finger taping
- finger bracing
- ice or heat treatment
- exercises to improve flexibility and strength
- activity modification advice
- a gradual return to activity program
Other intervention for a sprained finger
Despite appropriate physiotherapy management, a small percentage of patients with a sprained finger do not improve adequately and require other intervention. Some patients with severe injuries may also require other intervention to ensure an optimal outcome (