MyMediktor - Finger trauma - Finger contusion

Very low urgency

Common-

Non-penetrating type of injury caused by a low to medium intensity blow to one or more fingers.

It is usually caused by a direct blow with a hard, blunt object. The most common causes are trauma from contact sports, ball sports and accidents at work and home.

It presents with severe pain in the affected finger, as well as bruising and swelling that can restrict movement.

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 doesn't disappear and/or worsens after a week

Pain that doesn't subside with analgesics

Inability to move the extremity

Self-care

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

Apply local cold in the area of the lesion 3 times a day to reduce inflammation.

Keep the limb raised

Avoid doing abrupt movements.