MyMediktor - Finger trauma - Finger contusion

Very low urgency

Common-

This is a type of non-penetrating injury caused by a blow of low to medium intensity to one or more fingers. It is generally caused by a direct blow with a hard, blunt object. The most common causes are trauma in contact sports, ball sports and accidents at work and at home. It manifests with intense pain in the affected finger and bruising and swelling that may hinder movement. The diagnosis is clinical and treatment is symptomatic, with local cold therapy and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Bibliographic references

O'Kane JW, Levy MR, Pietila KE, et al. Survey of injuries in Seattle area levels 4 to 10 female club gymnasts. Clin J Sport Med 2011; 21:486.
Cates RA, Rhee PC, Kakar S. Multiple Volar Carpometacarpal Dislocations: Case Report/Review of the Literature. J Wrist Surg. 2016 Aug;5(3):236-40.
Schultzel M, Schultzel M, Wentz B, Bernhardt M. The prevalence of injury in Kendo. Phys Sportsmed. 2016;44(1):29-33.

Author

Dr. Oscar Garcia-Esquirol

Copyright

Symptoms

Finger pain

Swollen limb

Finger/toe discomfort

Finger pain increases when manipulated

Bruising around the injury

Symptoms to watch out for

The bruise does not disappear and/or worsens after 1 week

Pain that does not subside with analgesics.

Inability to move the extremity

Self-care

Take over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.

Apply local cold to the injured area 3 times a day to reduce inflammation.

Keep the limb raised

Avoid sudden movements.