Jammed finger or broken knuckle?!


Question: Jammed finger or broken knuckle?
I hurt my index finger while trying to intercept a basketball yesterday. It got swollen and a little bruised, but I can still bend it a little. I iced it and put it in a splint. This morning, though, the swelling was a little worse, and the bruising was more prominent. Although I can still bend it, I can't bend it as far as a could yesterday. I tried bending it as far as I could before I hurt it, so I was gently pushing it down. When I realized I couldn't, I released it and I immediately became lightheaded and nauseous. I'm not able to make a fist that includes my index finger. I've tried pulling on the joint to unjam, but nothing has happened. Most of the pain is on the underside of the middle knuckle. When should I finally take it to the doctor?

Answers:

Best Answer - Chosen by Voters

I broke my middle finger once when playing putt putt with my daughter. She swung her club back and hit my finger.
First of all quit trying to bend it. And do not pull on the joint. You are only aggravating the injury. Try taking some Advil or Ibuprofen for the pain and swelling unless you are allergic to it. These are anti-inflammatories and will take away the inflammation that is causing the swelling. The splint is a good idea but make sure you don't have it on too tight as that will also cause swelling.
If your finger continues to swell and gets red and warm to the touch go see your doctor. Unfortunately splinting a broken finger is about the only thing they can do. It it is dislocated in the joint the doctor will be able to manipulate it back to it's normal position. Also keep your hand elevated on a pillow and this should help the swelling go down.

I'm an RN.


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