Finger Fractures
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Finger fractures are relatively common, and despite the bones being small, they can cause significant issues with hand function.
The many (27) bones of our hand line up specifically to allow us to grip, manipulate and control objects precisely.
Your Health care professional can assess your finger injury to determine the extent of the injury, manage it effectively and/or refer on to a surgeon if indicated.
Without treatment your broken finger may end up stiff with ongoing pain and dysfunction.
As we head into the pre-season our “weekend warriors” through to out elite athletes should be aware of the signs and symptoms of finger fractures.
SwellingTenderness
Bruising
Reduced movement
Deformity of the finger
Poor alignment
Whilst contact sports are a common cause of finger fractures in the sporting population, other common causes of finger fractures include crushing injuries, such as closing your fingers in a door and twisting injuries to the fingers.
Several different types of fractures can occur in the fingers, many of which can be treated without an operation. Your health professional can determine the best treatment option for you based on the specific bone and type of fracture involved in your injury.
Generally, a period of immobilisation will be required to allow the bone to heal well in the correct position. This may be via a splint similar to the one pictured below, or a simple strapping technique like buddy strapping (strapping the finger to the next uninjured finger).
Rehabilitation after a finger fracture is aimed at restoring and maintaining range of movement, strength and function and some activities can be commenced early to prevent complications.
Rehabilitation Therapy may include:
Splinting/strappingFinger movement exercises
Stretching
Manual therapy
Strengthening
Return to sport training
Splinting for protection on return to sport
Book in with one of our physiotherapists by calling (02) 2356 2588 or book online via the button below.
Helping the Central Coast Feel Well, Move Well and Perform Well!