o 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 (such as immobilization, splinting or surgery). When this occurs the treating physiotherapist or doctor can advise on the best course of management. This may involve further investigation such as an X-ray, CT scan or MRI, or a review by a specialist who can advise on any procedures that may be appropriate to improve the condition. Occasionally, surgery may be required.
Exercises for a sprained finger
The following exercises are commonly prescribed to patients with a finger sprain. You should discuss the suitability of these exercises with your physiotherapist prior to beginning them. Generally, they should be performed 3 times daily and only provided they do not cause or increase symptoms.
Hand Open and Close
Curl your fingers and thumb making a tight fist then straighten your fingers as far as possible pain-free (figure 2). Repeat 10 times provided there is no increase in symptoms.
Figure 2 – Hand Open and Close (right hand)
Finger Adduction to Abduction
Begin this exercise with your fingers together as demonstrated (figure 3). Spread your fingers apart as far as possible pain-free then return to the starting position. Repeat 10 times provided there is no increase in symptoms.
Figure 3 – Finger Adduction to Abduction (right hand)
Tennis Ball Squeeze
Begin this exercise holding a tennis ball (figure 4). Squeeze the tennis ball as hard as possible and comfortable without pain. Hold for 5 seconds and repeat 10 times provided there is no increase in symptoms.
Figure 4 – Tennis Ball Squeeze (right hand)
Some of the most commonly recommended products by physiotherapists to hasten healing and speed recovery in patients with this condition include:
To purchase physiotherapy products for a sprained finger click on one of the above links or visit the PhysioAdvisor Shop.
Find a physiotherapist in your local area who can treat this condition.
- View more Hand & Finger Flexibility Exercises.
- View more Hand Strengthening Exercises.
- View Finger Taping Techniques.
- View Hand & Wrist Pain Diagnosis
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