Jammed finger is an injury of a finger joint due to excessive pressure on the joint. This joint is often referred to as the proximal interphalangeal joint. Jammed finger is fairly common in ball-handling sports such as basketball and volleyball. If left untreated, jammed finger may lead to permanent damage.
Instructions
1. Recall how the injury occurred to identify correctly the type of injury. The symptoms of a jammed finger includes severe pain at the joint, visible deformity, tenderness and swelling at the injury site. X-rays may be needed to check for fractures or dislocations.
2. Try to reset a dislocated finger by pulling it. However, it is recommended that you immobilize the injured finger and get help from a trained professional to manipulate the dislocation to avoid future complications.
3. Rest the finger at least 1 to 2 weeks. If necessary, tape the injured finger to a neighboring figure for added support.
4. Take pain medication to relieve pain. Apply sports creams that contain analgesics to reduce swelling and to relieve pain.
5. Be patient. Most injuries of this type will heal in a short time. If the joint is fractured or the ligaments are also damaged, surgery may be needed, and the healing process may take up to 6 months or more.Possible long-term complications include chronic boutonniere deformity, instability, weakness and stiffness.
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