A<unk>  can generally be diagnosed via physical examination. The relative position of the bones of the finger give an indication as to potential dislocations or fractures. However, it is recommended to seek medical attention regardless of whether or not a dislocation or fracture is evident. This is because untreated<unk> s can lead to future pain and stiffness, with joint surface fractures increasing the risk of arthritis. The areas around the injury may be palpated in order to ascertain the areas of maximum pain. If the injury is a joint injury (namely a sprain or dislocation), the point of maximum pain will be close to the joint rather than mid-phalanx (mid-bone). Due to the risk of dislocations or fractures, stability testing is not recommended until after an x-ray has been conducted and the presence of a dislocation or fracture has been confirmed or rejected. In extremely painful cases, a digital nerve block, where anaesthetic is injected in the web to either side of the affected finger, may be employed to enable assessment of the injury. X-rays may be employed to achieve a more accurate diagnosis of a<unk> , enabling the identification of varying types of dislocation or fractures. In order to account for all possibilities, it is recommended that a variety of views (lateral, oblique, and anteroposterior) are observed. Joints of the finger A<unk>  can be split into three categories; a sprain, a dislocation, or a fracture. Sprains can be further split into three sub-categories based on severity (first, second and third degree sprains in order of increasing severity). First degree sprains involve a stretching of the ligament, without a tear. Second degree sprains involve a partial tear of the ligament, while third degree sprains are complete tears of the ligament. Third degree sprains commonly result in a dislocation of the finger. Sprains are characterised by swelling of the joint, reduced range of motion, and pain. Dislocations can be categorised based on location and type. The finger can be split into three bones and two joints in an alternating order. From the fingertip to the knuckle, these are as follows; distal phalanx, distal inter-phalangeal (DIP) joint, middle phalanx, proximal inter-phalangeal (PIP) joint, and proximal phalanx. DIP dislocations are much less common than PIP dislocations, due to the “stability provided by strong collateral ligaments, palmar plates, and tendinous insertions, as well as the short lever arm of the distal phalanx”. Dislocations can be categorised based on the direction that the fingertip moves in relation to the knuckle, be it in the direction of the palm (volar dislocation), or the direction of the back of the hand (dorsal dislocation). Of the two, dorsal dislocations are more common. If reduction has been attempted, an x-ray of the dislocation should appear concentric if successful. However, if there is a fracture present, there will be a misalignment of the joint, which will be evident from the radiograph. Bach suggests a referral to a hand surgeon if a misalignment is present. Fractures are instances where the bone's structural integrity has been compromised. This is indicated by midshaft pain, as well as visual midshaft angulation or rotation. As with any skeletal injury, an x-ray can be conducted to verify the presence of a fracture. The distal phalanx is especially vulnerable to avulsion fractures, where a fragment of bone is ripped off when the tendon separates from the phalanx. Avulsion fractures are especially common following a first time dislocation. These are especially concerning, as it may indicate a complete tear of the extensor digitorum tendon. If left untreated, this may lead to permanent DIP extensor lag (inability to fully straighten the finger). A variation of the<unk>  where the extensor tendons on the back of the fingers are damaged is known as ‘mallet finger’. Mallet fingers are caused by the same finger trauma as<unk> s, and are characterised by a difficulty extending the finger or opening the hand. They may also exhibit other symptoms common to<unk> s such as swelling, pain, and tenderness.
Jammed finger
Trigger finger
Jersey finger
Broken finger
Hammer toe
Rocker bottom foot
Pigeon toe
Habit-tic deformity