Finger Fracture
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 10, 2025.
What is a finger fracture?
A finger fracture is a break in one or more of the bones in your finger.
What are the signs and symptoms of a finger fracture?
- Pain, bruising, or swelling
- Weakness or numbness
- Trouble moving your finger
- Finger shape is not normal
How is a finger fracture diagnosed and treated?
Your healthcare provider will examine you and ask about your injury. An x-ray may be used to check for a break or other damage. Treatment may include any of the following:
- A cast or splint helps prevent movement and protects your finger so it can heal.
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
- Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask your healthcare provider how to take this medicine safely. Some prescription pain medicines contain acetaminophen. Do not take other medicines that contain acetaminophen without talking to your healthcare provider. Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Prescription pain medicine may cause constipation. Ask your healthcare provider how to prevent or treat constipation.
- Closed reduction is used to put your bone back into the correct position without surgery.
- Open reduction surgery may be needed to put your bone back into the correct position. Wires, pins, plates, or screws may be used to keep the broken pieces lined up correctly.
How can I manage my symptoms?
- Wear your splint as directed. Do not remove your splint until you follow up with your healthcare provider or hand specialist.
- Apply ice on your finger for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover it with a towel before you apply it to your skin. Ice helps prevent tissue damage and decreases swelling and pain.
- Elevate your finger above the level of your heart as often as you can. This will help decrease swelling and pain. Prop your hand on pillows or blankets to keep it elevated comfortably.
- Go to physical therapy as directed. A physical therapist teaches you exercises to help improve movement and strength, and to decrease pain.
When should I seek immediate care?
- Your cast or splint gets wet, damaged, or comes off.
- Your splint or cast feels too tight.
- You have severe pain.
- Your injured finger is numb, cold, or pale.
When should I call my doctor or hand specialist?
- Your pain or swelling gets worse, even after treatment.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Care Agreement
You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.© Copyright Merative 2025 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
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