What is a dislocated finger?
The Carpal and Metacarpal bones form the wrist and palm of the hand respectively. From the distal end of the Metacarpal bones the fingers attach at the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints. Each of the four fingers is comprised of 3 progressively smaller bones, collectively known as the phalanges. The two joints in each finger where the phalangeal bones meet are called the interphalangeal (IP) joints.
With so many articulated joints connecting multiple small bones, the fingers are at particular risk of dislocation when exposed to high impacts and forced overstretching. Such forces are most typically experienced during sports, especially full contact sports like rugby or where catching a ball is involved. However, progressive, repetitive strain on the joints during daily activities can weaken the joints increasing the risk of a dislocation.
A dislocated finger usually involves excessive forces exerted on the joint above the connective tissues tensile strength. This causes the tissue, often ligaments, to partially or completely tear allowing the bony surfaces of the joint to slide away from one another. The remaining connective tissue, tendons, nerves and blood vessels may become impinged by this movement causing intense pain. Depending on the severity of the dislocation the displaced bone may cause damage to the surrounding tissues in addition to damage experienced during its dislocation.
Above: Hand therapy following a fractureWhat causes of a dislocated finger?
Finger dislocation is the result of excessive force applied to the joints of the fingers. It can happen to anyone trying to stop themselves during an awkward fall onto outstretched fingers. People who play sports are at more risk of finger dislocation due to the increased exposure to jarring and overstretch forces. In particular ball sports can lead to the high impact of the IP joints in the finger tips and overstretch forces to the MCP joints when catching. Fingers may also get accidentally trapped in clothing or equipment during tackles, or experience jarring impacts from collisions or falls.
In all incidents the key factor is the excessive force applied to the joint, most commonly hyperextension but can be a lateral force.
What are the symptoms of a dislocated finger?
The main symptoms of finger dislocation that occur at the time of injury include:
- Sudden, intense pain localised over the site of the injury immediately after it occurs.
- Audible popping or tearing sound at the time of injury.
- Deformation in the shape of the finger or in its direction in relation to the rest of the hand.
- Swelling at the site of dislocation, may occur slowly if vessels impinged.
If nerve impingement or damage occurs as a result of the displaced finger bone then you may experience some of the following:
- Referred pain into adjacent fingers, palm or even up the arm.
- Numbness, especially distally to the site of dislocation.
- Altered sensation, such as pins and needles or heat sensitivity.
Following the finger joints relocation, you will continue to experience symptoms as a result of the effects of dislocation. These symptoms may include:
- Persistent pain or dull ache in the affected joint.
- Onset of joint stiffness from swelling and long periods of immobility.
- Sensation of instability or looseness, feeling like it will dislocate again.
- Tenderness when touched over the affected joint.
- Pain and stiffness in affected joint increases with activity, such as writing, opening jars or gripping objects and pulling, like door handles.
How is a dislocated finger diagnosed?
A doctor or physiotherapist will be able to perform an examination to confirm the presence of a finger dislocation. A subjective history will be taken to establish the circumstances of the injury, followed by a careful objective examination of the finger itself. Diagnosis will be confirmed with the use of X-ray and to rule out the possibility of fractures or other complications.
For more information on physiotherapy treatment of finger dislocation, or to book yourself an appointment, please email office@liverpoolphysio.co.uk or ring us on 0151 558 0077.
What does Physiotherapy assessment for a dislocated finger involve?
In your first appointment at Liverpool Physio, your assessment would be divided into the following two sections:
Subjective
A discussion to find out how your injury has occurred, if you have had any previous injuries in this area, what symptoms you are experiencing and how your condition is affecting you and your lifestyle.
Objective
A physical assessment of your range of pain, tenderness in the area, range of movement and a series of special tests to identify exactly which structures are likely to be affected.
What does Physiotherapy treatment for a dislocated finger involve?
Initial treatment of finger dislocation involves confirmation of condition, safe relocation of the joint which is confirmed with X-ray, then immobilisation by use of a splint. In this early phase of treatment, covering the first three days from the time of injury, complete rest is appropriate. Ice therapy can use to alleviate pain and swelling, and the affected hand should be elevated to further help reduce swelling.
Once the splint has been removed your physiotherapist at Liverpool Physio can then begin rehabilitation of the affected finger. This will initially involve gentle mobilisations to maintain basic flexibility and muscle strength. Various therapies will be used to promote healing and relieve pain, with the physiotherapist working to progressively develop strength to improve joint stability. Physiotherapy intervention can quicken the pace of healing and generate a better overall recovery, whilst reducing the risk of re-injury. Treatments could include:
- Heat therapies, including wax baths or ice packs. To reduce pain / swelling.
- Soft tissue massage to relieve pain, disperse swelling and reduce scar tissue.
- Electrotherapy to promote soft tissue healing.
- Advice on the use of splints or taping.
- Advice on activity modification during recovery and to avoid re-injury.
- Passive and active flexibility exercises to maintain / improve range of movement.
- Strengthening exercises to improve joint stability.
- Dexterity exercises to improve functional strength and mobility.
- Exercise program for gradual return to normal daily activity or sports participation.
At Liverpool Physio your treatment will be personalised to your symptoms and address the concerns most important to you. At every treatment session our focus will be to return you to the best functional ability in the quickest possible time. So that you can return to a pain free independent life and the activities you enjoy most.
To book yourself an appointment, please email office@liverpoolphysio.co.uk or ring us on 0151 558 0077.
How can I arrange a physiotherapy assessment for a dislocated finger?
If you have suffered an injury and suspect you have dislocated your finger you should seek medical assistance. A doctor or physiotherapist can confirm a diagnosis of finger dislocation but you will need an X-ray before the finger joint can be relocated and rehabilitation begins.
You can contact us directly to arrange an assessment and we can advise you if further treatment is recommended, or give you details on self-management for minor cases. To arrange an appointment please email office@liverpoolphysio.co.uk or ring us on 0151 558 0077.
Summary
Finger dislocation can be very painful and inhibit all functionality of the affected hand. With a period of immobilisation the affected finger and hand can become stiff, painful and feel very unstable. Our experienced physiotherapists at Liverpool Physio can help relieve pain, stiffness, maintain strength and flexibility. Working towards regaining confidence and functional ability whilst performing normal daily tasks. We can even develop a progressive training plan to achieve a gradual return to sports. Whatever the severity of your dislocation our physiotherapists have the skills and knowledge to help you recover.
For more information on physiotherapy treatment of finger dislocation, or to book yourself an appointment, please email office@liverpoolphysio.co.uk or ring us on 0151 558 0077.
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