Finger dislocation

A finger dislocation occurs when one of the three bones of a finger moves out of its normal joint position. Unusual force that pulls, bends, or hits a finger can cause this misalignment of the joint. Finger dislocation is a common hand injury in sports, especially in activities that rely on heavy use of the hands.

Depending on the circumstances of the accident, a dislocated finger is often accompanied by other injuries to the finger or hand. These injuries may include broken bones or cuts or injuries to ligaments, tendons, or nerves.

The symptoms of a dislocation usually involve a very strange looking or crooked finger. But sometimes fingers may look normal when they are out of place. Other symptoms may include swelling and pain. There are several directions that the finger or thumb can be dislocated. Sometimes, it may be toward the palm of the hand, more often it will be toward the back of the hand. A finger can also be displaced to one side or the other.

When a finger is out of place, no one should try to relocate it except a healthcare provider. By trying to put it back in place, more injury can be done to the surrounding tissues and nerves of the joint and finger. A cloth-covered ice pack should be put on the joint and finger right away. Support the finger or thumb in its displaced position and seek medical help immediately.

A healthcare provider can best evaluate a dislocation injury. If the finger is out of alignment, it is important to have it put back into place quickly to avoid increasing damage to the joint. The pain will not go away until the finger is back in place. If there is a delay in getting it treated, there may be swelling and muscle spasm. This may make it harder to put the finger in place. X-rays are taken to determine the extent of damage. The provider will numb the area in order to reposition and splint the finger. The severity of the damage will determine the type of splint used and the length of time it will need to be worn. Some splints keep the finger from being bent, while others keep the finger from being straightened.

If there is injury to ligaments or tendons or if there is a severe cut near the joint, surgery may be needed by a surgeon who specializes in hand surgery. After surgery, exercises help make the finger strong and able to move again.

If a finger dislocation is treated right away, it should heal without problems. If not treated right away, or if not properly treated, there can be problems. These include an unstable joint, joint stiffness, and not being able to straighten or bend the finger normally. Sometimes, after several years, arthritis may occur in the joint.

The best way to prevent finger dislocations is to use hand protection that is appropriate for the specific sport or work activity. This may not prevent all dislocations, but it can help to protect the fingers and thumb.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File BONE3424.RF2 VRS# 7611 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1999-2000, 2003 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.