Dislocation of the ring finger treatment. Common causes of dislocated little finger. Severe symptoms and diagnosis of injuries

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A dislocated finger is a common type of injury, which is a displacement of the articular surfaces relative to each other with rupture of the joint capsule.

This problem is not a direct threat to human life, however, in the absence of qualified treatment, it can lead to a number of pathologies and functional limitations of the upper extremities in general and the hands or fingers in particular.

How to determine a dislocated finger? What first aid can be provided to the victim? How long does treatment last, and in what cases may surgery be required? You will read about this and much more in our article.

Causes and mechanisms of finger dislocation

The main reason for the formation of a dislocated finger on the hand is injury. It can form due to a number of circumstances:

  • Sports that actively use the upper limbs. Volleyball players, basketball players, and other professionals often injure their fingers when they unsuccessfully take a game ball onto the edge of their palm;
  • Sudden dynamic loads. Most often, the prerequisites for a dislocated finger are blows, falls on the upper limbs: A person unconsciously throws his arms forward to prevent a fall, as a result of which he gets injured;
  • Periodic joint compression. Features of monotonous hand work with the application of constant loads, frequent “crunching” of fingers and other periodic negative factors contribute to an increase in the risk of a dislocated finger;
  • Domestic injury. Falling heavy objects onto the hand or finger, trying to lift something too heavy with emphasis on the phalanges of the upper limbs, etc.

The mechanism of dislocation is quite simple - in the process of receiving an injury, there is a displacement of the articular surfaces of the bone structures of the indicated localization, rupture of the “bag” with the head coming out of it and parallel damage to the joint capsule and ligaments between the bones and muscle fibers. The result of this acute process is a change in its shape and the appearance of severe pain in the damaged area.

Symptoms and signs of a dislocated finger

Classic symptoms of a dislocated finger include the following:

It should be noted that the above symptoms are similar to typical manifestations of fractures and other types of finger injuries, therefore, with a high degree of probability, only a traumatologist can identify a dislocation based on an initial examination and the results of instrumental studies.

Finger dislocations are classified and divided into several types:

  • By location - main, middle or nail phalanx;
  • In the direction of displacement - lateral, palmar and dorsal;
  • In terms of severity - classic complete dislocations and segmental incomplete subluxations.

First aid

Timely and qualified first aid can significantly reduce the risk of unpleasant consequences. Typical first aid measures include:

  • Removing from the hand any elements that may compress or otherwise affect the area of ​​injury. We are talking about jewelry (hand chains, rings), as well as tight-fitting clothing, gloves;
  • Correct hand position. The hand in particular and the upper limb in general should be in a slightly elevated state. This will reduce swelling and improve microcirculation in peripheral vessels that nourish local soft tissues;
  • Painkillers. As a rule, their mild types (Paracetamol, Ibuprofen) do not give the required effect. Nimesil, Ketorolac in combination with Analgin will help relieve severe pain;
  • Local processing. It is carried out in cases of damage to the skin, abrasions, and wounds. It is recommended to use external antiseptics, after which it is worth applying a sterile bandage to the injury area;
  • Finger immobilization. It is rational to carry out for ordinary types of dislocations by bandaging the damaged finger to a healthy one. The immobilization block should not wrap around the phalanges too tightly so as not to disrupt blood circulation. If the localization is severely deformed, it is better not to touch the finger at all - additional movements will only aggravate the injury;
  • Ice application. Ice should be regularly applied to the site of the dislocation - 15-minute approaches with 2-minute breaks to eliminate the risks of hypothermia and frostbite of tissues;
  • Transportation. The victim is transported as carefully as possible to the nearest traumatology department for treatment procedures. It is not advisable to adjust the joint yourself: incorrect implementation of measures in most cases leads to aggravation of the problem.

Even if you know how to set a finger on your hand, you are prohibited from doing it yourself! Incorrect adjustment can lead to serious complications!

Diagnosis of injury

An ordinary person is unlikely to be able to accurately predict the type of injury the victim received, since the symptoms of a dislocated finger on the hand are very similar to a fracture, sprain, and even a severe bruise.

The diagnosis in this case can only be made by an experienced traumatologist.

Main stages of diagnosis:

  • Initial consultation with the patient, recording complaints and the exact circumstances of the injury. Visual inspection and palpation of the damaged location, basic differential analysis;
  • Direction for radiography in two projections;
  • If it is difficult to unambiguously interpret the X-ray results, as well as in cases of suspected flexor tendon entrapment, computed tomography and MRI of the damaged finger joint are prescribed.

Treatment and reduction techniques

Now let's look at how to treat a dislocated finger. In most cases, simple forms of dislocations and subluxations of the fingers on the hand are treated with conservative therapy, which includes a number of procedures - from the prescription of medications for health reasons (most often this is an effective local anesthetic) to the reduction of the joint itself. Traumatologists usually use the closed reduction method:

  • The patient is administered a local anesthetic and muscle relaxants that reduce the tone of skeletal muscles;
  • The hand with the injured finger is fixed in a semi-pronated position. For injuries with a dorsal direction, the forearm is also subject to additional immobilization;
  • The traumatologist focuses on the base of the finger, after which he fixes it in his hands and with a smooth, strong movement returns the phalanx in the direction of overbending. As a result, the head of the bone returns to the articular bed.

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When the interphalangeal joints are dislocated, the finger is stretched and then fixed. After correct positioning, an immobilization splint is applied to the affected area, and the patient continues to be given painkillers and other medications according to vital indications.

Before starting the rehabilitation process, the traumatologist may prescribe the use of external ointments with NSAID components - Diclak or Fastum gel, Dolgit, Diclofenac. The splint is removed after 3 weeks; complete restoration of the functionality of the upper limbs in simple forms of finger dislocation takes 4-6 weeks.

Surgery

For complicated forms of dislocations with tendon entrapment and other pathologies, the traumatologist usually prescribes surgery or the so-called open reduction.

Open reduction is performed under conduction or local anesthesia by an experienced surgeon.

Main events:

  • Providing direct access to the localization of injury using a dorsal radial incision;
  • Dissection of the strangulated capsule;
  • Instrumental or manual tendon movement;
  • Reduction of the head of the bone into the articular bed;
  • If necessary, suturing the extensor tendons with special transosseal sutures to the bone structures;
  • In the case of an old injury, removal of the falsely formed joint;
  • Layer-by-layer suturing of tight-fitting soft tissues;
  • Postoperative wound drainage;
  • Application of a complex rigid splint;
  • After 10-12 days, the sutures are removed;
  • After a month, the splint is dismantled.

Rehabilitation after injury

The rehabilitation period after dislocation of the fingers on the hand begins from the day the splint is removed until the full functionality of the joint is restored. The classical program usually includes physiotherapeutic procedures, massage and therapeutic exercises.

Physiotherapy

Specific physical therapy techniques are prescribed depending on the patient’s current health status, the nature of the injury and other factors:

  • Analgesic effect – SUV irradiation and amplipulse therapy;
  • Anti-inflammatory effect - microwave and UHF, as well as magnetic therapy at high frequencies;
  • Vasodilating effect - biogalvanization, electrophoresis (using vasodilator solutions), IR irradiation, paraffin and ozokerite applications, laser therapy (red spectrum), ultratonotherapy, low-frequency magnetic therapy;
  • Lymphatic drainage – alcohol-based compresses;
  • Inductive regeneration – laser irradiation in a wide spectrum;
  • Myostimulation – interference therapy, myoelectric stimulation;
  • Other procedures for life-saving indications.

Massage

Massage treatments are usually an adjunct to physical therapy. At the first stage, measures are prescribed to passively restore blood flow and eliminate swelling.

The second stage is the induction of tone of skeletal muscles and soft tissues. The final sessions are aimed at returning full motor activity of the fingers, hand and upper limb as a whole.

Exercise therapy

Let's look at how to stretch a finger after a dislocation. Therapeutic gymnastics includes regular exercises 3-4 times a day with repetitions of basic exercises 10-15 times. Before starting exercise therapy, it is advisable to soak the damaged fingers in warm water with the addition of sea salt for 10 minutes (liquid temperature is about 38 degrees).

  • Main complex. Rubbing the hands of the upper limbs against each other, rotating them clockwise and counterclockwise. Turning the hands, palms down, both to the left and to the right, and raising them above a horizontal surface;
  • Development of fine motor skills. Collecting puzzles, construction sets, matches, cereals. Playing keyboards or stringed instruments. Knitting, sewing, cutting, appliques, speed typing on a personal computer keyboard;
  • Additional classes. Working with an expander, clenching the hand into a fist, bringing the fingertips together, bending the phalanges and moving them in a circular motion.

Complications and consequences

The list of possible complications after a dislocated finger usually includes the following negative manifestations:

  • Disruption of connections between nerve endings and receptors leading to regular pain syndrome, decreased tactile sensitivity;
  • Rapid development of the tunnel effect, a significant increase in the risk of dislocation even with minor external influence on a potentially dangerous localization in the future;
  • Single or multiple ligament ruptures, skeletal muscles, tendons;
  • Disturbances in the functioning of the peripheral vascular system in the area of ​​injury, leading to frequent formation of edema and hematomas even in the absence of dynamic loads on the localization;
  • Arthrosis (especially in old age), causing fractures of the bone structures of the joints;
  • Visible finger deformation, decrease or complete disappearance of his functional motor activity.

It is also possible that if the finger is not properly reduced and treated after a dislocation, the finger may not bend.

Now you know everything about the symptoms and treatment of a dislocated finger.

Fingers are a very common injury. It can be obtained at home, at work or while playing certain sports. This damage does not pose the slightest threat to the life of the victim, but significantly limits his actions. There are many nerve endings in the hands, so a dislocation can cause very severe pain.

note

When falling, the thumb is most often injured due to the peculiarities of its anatomical position.

Types of dislocations

A dislocated finger is a pathological displacement of the articular surfaces of the bones that form the metacarpophalangeal or interphalangeal joint. This injury is often accompanied by rupture of the ligamentous apparatus and joint capsule., which can subsequently lead to serious complications if qualified medical care is not provided in a timely manner. Damage to the skin is also possible, which, if antiseptic treatment is insufficiently thorough, can cause an infectious process.

Depending on the degree of displacement, dislocations are divided into full (with them there is no contact between the articular surfaces) and incomplete (subluxations).

According to the direction of bone displacement, injuries are divided into rear (most common) palmar And lateral .

Types of offsets:

  • dislocation of the main phalanx (relative to the metacarpal bone);
  • dislocation of the middle phalanx;
  • dislocation of the nail phalanx.

Symptoms of a dislocated finger

note

On your own, it is almost impossible to differentiate a dislocated finger from. In both cases, there is a clearly visible change in the appearance of the limb. It is possible to clarify whether there is a violation of the integrity of bone tissue only during.

The leading symptoms of a dislocated finger include:

At palmar dislocation I finger it moves towards the palm. During the examination, it is possible to palpate the head of the metacarpal bone. Sign dorsal dislocation is the shortening of the thumb and its extension at the interphalangeal joint. The articular surface of the main phalanx is palpated on the dorsal surface, and the head of the metacarpal bone is palpated on the palmar surface. The flexor longus tendon may become caught between the displaced surfaces, which significantly complicates the reduction process.

Dislocation of the main phalanges of the remaining fingers occurs mainly in the dorsal direction. When moving along, a sharp pain and resistance of a springy nature are felt.

Dislocations of the middle and nail phalanges of the II-V fingers are most often dorsal and lateral And. A characteristic sign is complete immobility. The most serious complications include avulsion of the extensor tendon (in some cases, along with a small fragment of bone).

What to do if a finger is dislocated: first aid

At the slightest suspicion of a dislocation or fracture of a finger, you must go to the nearest trauma center. The victim will also need qualified medical care. Ruptures of tendons and joint capsules may require hospitalization in a specialized hospital department. During transportation, it is advisable to immobilize the affected arm.

First of all, you need to ensure complete rest and immobility of the injured limb. To reduce the severity of swelling and the intensity of pain, it is advisable to apply ice or a bag of cold water to the injured area.

note

Ice should be removed every 10-15 minutes to prevent frostbite.

The affected hand must be immediately freed from jewelry and clothing, which can interfere with blood flow against the background of increasing swelling. For better outflow of blood and lymph, it is advisable to keep the sore limb in an elevated position. You can take a tablet or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug internally.

Remedies to help reduce pain when a finger is dislocated:

  • Nimesil;
  • Ketorol;
  • Ketonal;
  • Nurofen;
  • Ketoprofen;

Open wounds (even small ones) must be thoroughly washed, treated with an antiseptic solution (5% iodine, potassium permanganate, furatsilin, brilliant green) and covered with an antiseptic bandage. Any damage to the skin must be reported to a doctor; in some cases it is an indication for the administration of tetanus toxoid.

To prevent the dislocation from worsening, it is necessary to carefully immobilize the affected finger on your own by bandaging it to the adjacent healthy one. Care must be taken to ensure that the bandage is not applied too tightly, as this will interfere with normal microcirculation in the injury area. Fixation should be abandoned if the finger is seriously deformed or swelling rapidly increases.

Under no circumstances should you try to set a sprained finger on your own. This can cause complications such as rupture of the joint capsule and painful shock!

Treatment for a dislocated finger

The patient can be taken to a medical facility independently or called an ambulance.

Directly at the emergency room, the doctor collects an anamnesis, i.e., conducts a survey and examines the injured arm. Then, to clarify the nature of the damage, he is sent for radiography. If there is reason to suspect tendon entrapment, they resort to additional methods of hardware diagnostics or.

In case of uncomplicated dislocation, they resort to the usual comparison of articular surfaces. If bones or soft tissues are damaged, surgical intervention is necessary.

Closed reduction is performed under local or general anesthesia (). During local anesthesia, additional administration of muscle relaxants may be required to reduce muscle tone. The limb is fixed for a while or asked to be held in an elevated position to slightly reduce swelling. In most cases, to restore the anatomical relationship of the articular surfaces, it is enough to move the finger to the side and pull the tip (in the axial direction). When the joint returns to its normal position, a characteristic click will be heard.

When the tendon becomes pinched when the first finger is dislocated, it is rotated to the ulnar side with parallel flexion of the nail phalanx.

After the procedure is completed, a splint is applied to the finger and part of the hand for immobilization. It must be worn for at least 3 weeks.

In the absence of complications after closed reduction, full restoration of working capacity requires an average of 4-5 weeks.

Open reduction is a surgical intervention that is used for dorsal dislocation of the thumb with entrapment of the tendon and the impossibility of comparing the surfaces using a closed method. The operation is performed under conduction or local anesthesia. The strangulated capsule is dissected using a dorsal radial approach, after which the tendon is returned to its normal position using a special elevator instrument. The final stage of surgical manipulation is layer-by-layer suturing and drainage. The sutures are removed after 10 days, and the patient will wear a bandage that provides immobility for 3 weeks.

Surgery is also necessary in cases where dislocations of the II-V fingers are complicated by injuries to the extensor tendon. During the intervention, it is sutured to the bone with special sutures. Then the fragment is repositioned (if there is a fracture) and the articular surfaces are compared. The bandage is worn for 3 weeks.

Indication for surgical intervention is chronic dislocation, in which more than a week has passed since the injury, and spontaneous reduction has not occurred. A likely complication in such situations is the formation of a false joint, the elimination of which requires plastic surgery of the ligaments and articular surfaces. A rigid immobilizing bandage is applied for a period of 2 weeks to 1 month.

Rehabilitation period

After the bandage has been removed from the injured arm, in order to quickly restore its functions to full extent, it is recommended to perform sets of exercises for hands . Also shown training with a rubber expander and performing actions to restore fine motor skills of the fingers.

To reduce signs of inflammation (including pain and swelling), it is advisable to topically apply ointments and gels containing NSAIDs (including Diclofenac, Fastum-gel, Voltaren-emclgel, etc.) 2-4 times a day.

Wearing an elastic bandage may be indicated for several weeks.

Plisov Vladimir, doctor, medical observer

is a pathological condition in which the articular surfaces of the phalanges of the fingers shift and cease to be congruent with each other. Fingers are affected more often than toes. All phalanges can dislocate: main, middle and distal. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, deformity in the joint area and lack of movement. The diagnosis is made based on external data and X-ray results. Treatment is usually conservative - realignment of the finger followed by application of a plaster cast. In some cases, fixation with a pin or surgery on the joint is necessary.

ICD-10

S63.1 S93.1

General information

Causes

The cause of injury to a finger is usually a domestic or sports injury: forced hyperextension or a blow to the finger area. A dislocated toe occurs as a result of jumping or falling. .

Classification

Depending on the level of damage, dislocations of the fingers are divided into dislocations of the main, middle and nail phalanx. When the main phalanx is dislocated, its articular surface is displaced relative to the head of the corresponding metacarpal bone. When the middle and nail phalanx are dislocated, the articular surface of the distal phalanx is displaced relative to the proximal one. Depending on the direction of displacement, dorsal, palmar and lateral dislocations are distinguished. Most often, there is a displacement of the bone towards the back. When the toes are dislocated, damage may occur in the area of ​​the interphalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints. The distal segment can move plantar, dorsally or laterally.

Types of finger dislocation

Dislocation of the first finger of the hand

It can be dorsal and palmar, complete or incomplete. Displacement to the rear is formed with the extensor mechanism of the injury, displacement towards the palm - with the flexion mechanism. In a dorsal dislocation, the flexor longus tendon may be displaced and pinched between the articular surface of the proximal phalanx and the head of the metacarpal, making reduction difficult. At the time of injury, sharp pain occurs. The finger is swollen and deformed in the area of ​​the metacarpophalangeal joint. Active movements are impossible; when passive movements are attempted, spring resistance is detected.

With a dorsal dislocation, the finger is shortened, bent at the metacarpophalangeal joint and extended at the interphalangeal joint. The thenar area bulges, the head of the first metacarpal bone is palpated along the palmar surface, and the articular surface of the main phalanx is palpated along the dorsal surface. With a palmar dislocation, the finger is extended in both joints and displaced to the palmar side. The head of the first metacarpal bone is palpated along the dorsal surface. To confirm the diagnosis, an x-ray of the first finger is performed. If an entrapment of the long flexor tendon is suspected, an MRI or CT scan of the joint may be prescribed.

Treatment of a fresh dislocated finger is outpatient, carried out in an emergency room. Elimination of a dislocated finger is performed under local anesthesia. With a dorsal dislocation, the traumatologist slightly retracts the finger and pulls it along the axis, while simultaneously shifting the proximal phalanx onto the head of the metacarpal bone. The pull can be done using a bandage loop or using a regular grip. In order to eliminate the pinching of the tendon, the finger is turned to the ulnar side, while simultaneously bending the nail phalanx. After reduction, immobilization is carried out with a splint for 3 weeks.

If a dorsal dislocation cannot be reduced due to a pinched tendon, the patient is sent to the trauma department for open reduction. The operation is performed under local or regional anesthesia using dorsal radial access. The pinched capsule is dissected, the tendon is moved to the side with an elevator, after which the finger is easily reduced. The wound is sutured layer by layer and drained with a rubber graduate. A splint is applied for 3 weeks. The stitches are removed after 10 days.

Closed reduction of palmar dislocation is also performed using axial traction. The finger is extended, extended and pressed on the head of the metacarpal bone, moving it to the palmar side. The immobilization period is 3 weeks. After reduction, UHF is prescribed for all finger dislocations, both palmar and dorsal. Working capacity is restored after 4-5 weeks.

Dislocations of the proximal phalanges of the II-V fingers

Dorsal dislocations usually occur. Damage is accompanied by severe pain, deformation, and swelling of soft tissues. Movements in the metacarpophalangeal joint are impossible; spring resistance is determined. The head of the corresponding metacarpal bone is palpated in the palm, and the articular surface of the main phalanx is palpated on the back. The diagnosis is confirmed by radiography of the fingers. Outpatient treatment - closed reduction under local anesthesia followed by immobilization for 3 weeks. During this period, UHF and functional therapy are prescribed. The sick leave is closed after 4-5 weeks.

Dislocations of the nails and middle phalanges of the fingers

Usually they are rear, less often - lateral. The patient is experiencing severe pain. The finger is swollen, and a bayonet-shaped deformity is detected in the area of ​​the damaged joint. Movement is impossible. Sometimes dislocation is accompanied by avulsion of the extensor tendon, and the tendon is usually torn from its insertion site along with a small bone fragment. To confirm the diagnosis, an x-ray of the fingers is prescribed; if a tendon avulsion is suspected, the patient may be referred for a CT scan or MRI of the bone. Treatment of uncomplicated dislocations is outpatient. The finger is set under local anesthesia and a cast is applied for 3 weeks. Treatment of complicated dislocations is carried out in a hospital. The damaged extensor tendon is sutured to the bone at the insertion site using transosseous sutures. The dislocated finger is set and the wound is sutured. Immobilization is also carried out for 3 weeks.

The prognosis for dislocated fingers is favorable; in the vast majority of cases, range of motion is completely restored, and there is no pain in the long term. Habitual finger dislocations are extremely rare. Failure to seek medical help in a timely manner can lead to the development of chronic dislocation. In such cases, immediate reduction is impossible; to restore the congruence of the articular surfaces, stabilize and develop the joint, the Volkov-Oganesyan apparatus must be applied. The outcome of an old dislocation can be arthrosis of the damaged joint.

Sprained toes

Sprained toes are a fairly rare injury. Dislocations of the distal phalanx of the first finger are most often observed, injuries to the fourth finger occupy second place, and the third finger is least likely to suffer. Injury usually occurs as a result of indirect impact (impact on a hard object, fall from a height). There is sharp pain, characteristic deformation, swelling, limited function, shortening of the finger and a symptom of springy immobility. The diagnosis is confirmed by radiography of the toes. Treatment is usually outpatient - closed reduction of a dislocated toe. If possible, manipulation should be carried out before significant swelling appears. Under local anesthesia, the traumatologist performs lengthwise traction using a grasper, a gauze loop, or a thin wire passed through the distal phalanx. At the same time, the doctor presses on the base of the displaced phalanx in the direction opposite to the displacement.

If the dislocation cannot be eliminated, open reduction is resorted to in a hospital setting. In case of instability, transarticular fixation with a pin is performed. For a single dislocation, a bandage consisting of several layers of adhesive plaster is sufficient for immobilization. In case of multiple injuries, it is necessary to apply a plaster cast. The patient is prescribed UHF. Fixation is continued for 2-3 weeks, ability to work is restored after 3-4 weeks. The prognosis is favorable, in most cases, movements are preserved in full, the support is not affected, and there is no pain in the long term.

Almost all people experience finger injuries. Such damage can occur after an unsuccessful hit on the ball during a sports competition. A dislocation of the thumb is accompanied by rupture of the ligaments. The damaged joint becomes deformed and swells greatly.

Signs of dislocation

The following symptoms are typical for a dislocation:

  • the victim feels sharp pain in the area of ​​injury;
  • a person experiences difficulty when trying to bend a finger;
  • a dislocated finger on the hand leads to redness and swelling of the bruised area;
  • upon visual examination, you can notice deformation of the limb;
  • loss of sensitivity occurs;
  • There is a bruise at the site of the injury.

Features of dislocated fingers

In most cases, the middle joint of the little finger is damaged. The victim feels pain, the damaged area swells. In this case, the mobility of the little finger is severely limited. After the diagnosis, the doctor determines the severity of the injury. Typically, such injuries are treated on an outpatient basis. A dislocated thumb results in a more severe deformity. In this case, the patient cannot move the injured finger. He feels sharp pain even from a slight touch. The phalangeal joint quickly swells and the skin color changes. Depending on the nature of the displacement, dorsal and palmar dislocations are distinguished.

What to do before the doctors arrive?

First of all, you need to remove the jewelry from the damaged finger. Leaving a ring on it can greatly complicate the treatment process, since after an injury the bruise site swells greatly.
Now you can begin to immobilize the dislocated finger. Most often, the middle joint is dislocated. To fix it, you can use a small board and a bandage. If there is no suitable object nearby, you can tape the sore finger to the healthy limb. Apply ice wrapped in a piece of cloth to the sprained area. Exposure to cold can reduce pain and stop the development of swelling. If the pain is unbearable, you can take a painkiller. Be sure to warn your doctor about this. It is advisable to raise your hand up to prevent blood stagnation. Under no circumstances should you try to drive with such an injury and drive to the hospital on your own. When providing first aid it is prohibited:
  • try to return the inverted phalanx of the finger to its original position;
  • self-medicate, postponing a visit to a traumatologist;
  • give the victim alcohol as a pain reliever;
  • apply warming compresses, as they will only worsen the patient’s condition.
With timely treatment, the rehabilitation period is about a month.


The doctor can make a preliminary diagnosis based on the patient’s complaints and external symptoms. It is possible to verify that this is a dislocation only after an X-ray examination. After receiving an x-ray, a specialist can rule out the possibility of a fracture.

Treatment methods for dislocated fingers

The method of treatment depends on the age of the dislocation and the nature of the damage. There are several types of dislocations:
  • An injury that occurred no more than 2 days ago is considered fresh;
  • a dislocated finger that occurred no more than a month ago is not fresh;
  • Habitual injury is characterized by permanent damage;
  • If more than a month has passed since the injury, then the dislocation is considered old.
Signs of a dislocation differ depending on the severity of the injury:
  • open injuries are accompanied by a violation of the integrity of the skin;
  • with closed dislocations the skin is not damaged;
  • Complicated dislocations lead to pinched nerve endings and rupture of blood vessels.
Treatment of old injuries is complicated by the formation of false joints and disruption of the ligaments. The operation is performed under local anesthesia. The bones must be moved so that the joint capsule is in the correct position after healing. The procedure ends with the application of a plaster cast for 2-4 weeks. Before surgery, all jewelry must be removed from the affected hand. The brush should be in an elevated position. This way you can ensure the outflow of blood from the injured limb. The doctor pulls the tip of the finger and inserts it into the joint capsule until a click appears.


For minor injuries, surgery can be avoided. Treatment consists of taking painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclovenac, Ketonal). Full recovery may take approximately 6 weeks. To cure damaged cartilage, doctors recommend taking chondoprotectors. With their help, you can speed up the rehabilitation process.

How is the reduction operation performed?

The operation is considered extremely painful. Anesthesia is necessary to ensure muscle relaxation. If a dorsal dislocation occurs, then you need to fix the forearm in the area of ​​the wrist joint. In this case, the doctor rests on the surface of the damaged phalanx. The specialist grabs the thumb and increases its hyperextension. It is noteworthy that in the case of a dislocated toe, the process of reduction is largely similar.
A dislocated finger can be dorsal or lateral. During diagnosis, doctors identify the type of displacement. The reduction operation involves the specialist pulling out the damaged phalanx and fixing it in the desired position using a plaster cast.

Physiotherapy


The following procedures are used as physical therapy to treat sprains:

  1. To improve the drainage of lymph from the damaged area, a therapeutic massage is performed.
  2. The regeneration process can be significantly accelerated by applying ultrasonic waves to the area of ​​the injured finger.

Therapeutic exercises

Experts recommend performing several effective exercises to develop an injured finger:
  1. In the starting position, the fingers are together and extended. Spread your fingers on the injured limb as far as possible. You should not have any pain while doing the exercise. Return your hand to the starting position. Repeat the exercise 10 times.
  2. Clenching and unclenching your fist will help you regain the mobility of your finger. When unclenching, straighten your fingers as much as possible. The exercise must be repeated 10 times.
  3. Now take a tennis ball in your hand and squeeze it with your injured hand. Hold the brush in this position for 5 seconds. If pain occurs, exercises should be stopped immediately.

Traditional recipes for the treatment of dislocations

  1. Grind the bryonia root and add a liter of water. The broth should be boiled for 15 minutes. There is no need to wait until the liquid has completely cooled. Soak a piece of bandage in a warm solution and apply to the sore spot.
  2. Grind the root of the foot and mix it with oil. You should end up with a paste that you need to lubricate the sprained finger several times a day.
  3. Pour a glass of boiling water over the elecampane root and leave for 40 minutes. Soak a piece of cloth in the broth and apply it to the sore spot. The compress stimulates the regeneration process of damaged ligaments.
  4. The baked onion should be cut into small pieces and mixed with sugar. Place the onion pulp on the sore spot and wrap it with a bandage. It is advisable to apply this compress before going to bed.

Reduction of a dislocated finger. VIDEO

A dislocated finger on the hand often occurs when the necessary safety measures are not observed when working.

Due to a sharp and strong contraction of the muscles, a dislocation occurs. Basically, during a dislocation, ligaments and joint capsules are torn.

Orthopedist-traumatologist: Azalia Solntseva ✓ Article checked by doctor

How to treat

When the victim has undergone the necessary procedures from a doctor, the specialist applies a splint. This is often necessary when the thumb is dislocated.

In some milder cases, a bandage is simply applied instead of a splint.

If the dislocation no longer threatens a person’s health, then the splint can be removed. It is necessary to choose a set of exercises - recovery will occur much faster.

Only using local anesthesia will the doctor be able to painlessly straighten the joint.

It is necessary to tighten the finger until a click appears. The finger will fall into place. If the tendons are damaged or a fracture occurs, then surgical intervention will be necessary.

Without seeking help in time and without starting treatment, you can aggravate your situation to the point that your finger cannot fully recover. Then it will be difficult to work with the hand that is injured. For example, if seven days have passed and treatment has not been started, then the formation of a false joint occurs.

The doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory therapy using ointments - Dolobene gel, Fastum gel or Diclofenac. If you use them constantly, the swelling will go away and the pain will significantly decrease.

You can do exercises as rehabilitation. They are prescribed several times a day, for several hours. This must be done until the painful sensations go away.

Another good method for reducing pain and swelling is ice.

During the injury, the hand itself must be slightly raised. Thanks to this, swelling decreases, because the pressure in the blood vessels decreases.

If the pain is severe, you must take a pain reliever.

Help at home

The most effective methods:

  1. A paste of cabbage leaves or plantain leaves. It is applied to the injured part. This will relieve swelling and pain.
  2. Baths with pine needles and nut leaves.
  3. During the initial period, you can apply ice and do certain exercises.
  4. Keep your arm elevated at all times to relieve swelling.

Symptoms of injury

There are many nerve endings on the finger - the pain when dislocated will be severe. Nerve endings quickly transmit a signal to the brain that damage has occurred.

It is quite easy to diagnose a dislocation yourself at home. It is easy to see, since the very appearance of the finger has a different appearance.

The deformation of the finger is noticeable, because the joints and bones are in the wrong position.

To accurately determine whether this injury is a fracture, you need to consult a traumatologist. However, the following symptoms will help you roughly determine what type of injury has occurred.

Signs of a dislocated finger:

  1. A feeling of severe pain, which especially intensifies when you begin to move or touch a finger.
  2. There is severe swelling of tissues that are damaged.
  3. It is difficult or almost impossible to move your finger. In particular, it practically does not bend or unbend.
  4. The area of ​​injured skin will become red and the finger itself will become pale.
  5. It is noticeable that the finger is deformed.
  6. The skin was damaged, and the muscles and ligaments received visible tears.

Differences from fracture

If a person has a fracture, it is characterized by a violation of the integrity of the bones. If the little finger is dislocated, the ligamentous apparatus of the joints is sharply stretched and the joint capsule is torn.

There is a violation of the relationship between the surface of the joint. Any movement of the injured arm is blocked.

Unnatural mobility of those bones that were previously solid appears. If a person breaks his arm, then the place of moving debris can be felt with his hand.

One of the first symptoms of a fracture is severe pain that extends to the entire arm segment.

The place where the fracture occurred becomes swollen. A hematoma may appear on it, which, if not treated correctly, spreads along the arm. If you tap your hand even a little, you will feel a sharp pain. If it is a dislocation, then the shape of the injured part remains the same.

The extent to which the injured limb will be shortened directly depends on the severity of the dislocation.

After all, during a fracture, the length and shape of the arm usually changes.

This suggests that the debris is spreading throughout the joint. This does not happen with a dislocation.

During a dislocation, unlike a fracture, pain occurs immediately. It's sharp and intense. With a fracture, pain occurs a little later.

Priority actions

Here are some important tips:

  1. Avoid any improper action, including attempting to straighten the joint yourself. After all, any small incorrect movement leads to the fact that the bone will either grow together, or stretch, or the general situation will worsen.
  2. Whenever possible, the rings are removed. It must be securely fixed and freed from any unnecessary movements. This will help avoid any other injuries. This way the situation will not get worse. A bandage is used as a fixative. But don't tie it too tight.
  3. It is important to cool the damaged area a little with something cold.
  4. Pain medication should be taken as needed.
  5. The patient is taken to the hospital as quickly as possible to be examined by a traumatologist. Sometimes there is a need to call an ambulance.
  6. During an appointment with a doctor, the injury is examined. You can accurately determine the nature of the disease: it is a dislocation, sprain or fracture. If a dislocation is determined, the doctor can set it manually. It is strictly forbidden to do this yourself.

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Duration of recovery period

How long and difficult the treatment will be depends on the following:

  1. What is the severity of the injury?
  2. How timely and qualified first aid was provided.
  3. How timely did you see a doctor?

In any case, reduction is necessary, which is sometimes done with local anesthesia. Then the specialist securely fixes the hand so that the patient is comfortable. There are special orthoses that will help ensure immobility. Pain is reduced and accidental displacements do not occur.

This will help the patient to quickly normalize the condition of injured fingers. In order to speed up rehabilitation after realigning the finger and applying a bandage, use local remedies, including ointments. They should have an anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-edematous effect.

We recover in a short time (within 2-3 weeks):

  • Undergoing physiotherapeutic procedures.
  • Receiving a therapeutic massage.
  • Availability of a special set of exercises.

The sooner treatment begins, the faster the injured limb will function normally.

Anatomy of the structure

Experts use Roman numerals:

  • I – large;
  • II – index;
  • III – average;
  • IV – unnamed;
  • V – little finger.

Each finger has a dorsal, palmar and two lateral surfaces.

All fingers of the hand, except I, consist of three phalanges:

  • proximal (main) – located closer to the hand;
  • distal (nail) – located at the end of the finger;
  • middle - located between proximal and distal.
  • The first finger consists of two phalanges.

The phalanges are connected to each other by joints, and to the hand they are attached to the heads of the metacarpal bones, forming the metacarpophalangeal joints.

Therapeutic gymnastic exercises

A set of therapeutic exercises must be performed 3 times a day. Each exercise is repeated 10 times.

  1. Rub your hands until you feel warm.
  2. Fold your straightened fingers into a “scapula” and perform rotational movements in your hands.
  3. Place your hands on a table or other horizontal surface (palms down). Rotate your hands without lifting them from the table, raising your palms up and lowering them to their previous position.
  4. Hand position as in exercise No. 3. Perform rotational movements with your hands, but do not lift them from the table.

It is imperative to perform actions that ensure the development of fine motor skills:

  • put together puzzles or construction sets;
  • collect matches or cereal scattered on a flat table surface;
  • do handicrafts (sewing, embroidery, knitting, applique, etc.);
  • typing on a PC keyboard;
  • play keyboards or stringed musical instruments;
  • train your arm with a hand expander.

A set of therapeutic exercises:

  1. Make a fist with your hand and try to light an imaginary lighter.
  2. Clench your hand into a fist so that the first finger is in it. Turn your hands palm side up.
  3. Relax your hand and touch the tip of each finger to the tip of your thumb. Repeat the same exercise, but through your finger.
  4. Place your hands on a flat horizontal surface, palms down. Gather your fingers as if you need to salt something and move them. Return your fingers to their original position.
  5. Bend 2-4 fingers and perform circular movements with the first finger, first in one direction and then in the other direction.

Seeing a doctor is always required. Don't try to set it yourself.

Only competently provided first aid and properly carried out treatment and rehabilitation will help you prevent the development of complications and fully restore all functions.

Dislocated finger on hand - what to do

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