Hand > Finger Dislocation

What is a Finger Dislocation?

The bones of the fingers are connected together by very strong ropes which are called ligaments. The ends of the bone are shaped like a ball and a socket. The ligaments' job is to hold the ball in the socket. When enough force is applied, the ligament tears with or without an associated break in the bone. The ball will then come out of its socket, resulting in pain, deformity and an inability to take the joint through its full arc of motion. This condition is called a dislocation.

A direct or indirect blow to the finger or hand is the most common cause of a finger dislocation. On the playing field, this can occur as a result of running into an opponent or having your finger jammed when you catch a ball incorrectly. Finger dislocations are common in basketball, soccer, baseball, and football. If you suffer from arthritis, you may be at an increased risk of suffering a finger dislocation. Poor muscle coordination in the hand may also contribute.

There usually are three parts to an orthopedic evaluation: medical history, a physical examination, and tests that your physician may order.

Your physician will ask about the activities that caused your injury. You will be asked how the injury occurred, and whether you have had similar injuries in the past. Physicians also typically ask about other conditions, such as arthritis, diabetes, and allergies, and medications currently being taken. You may also be asked about your physical and athletic goals – information that will help your physician decide what treatment might be best for you in achieving those goals.

Your physician will carefully examine your finger to determine the nature of the dislocation. If the finger is out of position, a reduction will be performed, in which the finger is repositioned in its normal alignment.

X-rays taken from different angles enable your physician to determine the nature of your dislocation and whether any fractures have occurred. If your finger is out of position, X-rays may be taken before it is reduced, or put back in position and after it is reduced.

Since finger dislocations are acute injuries that often occur during athletic competition, it is important to take precautions immediately to prevent complications. If there are no medical personnel in attendance, do not try to use force to move the finger yourself. Try to keep your hand elevated to reduce blood flow to the injured area, which aids in preventing swelling. If possible, take an anti-inflammatory such as aspirin or ibuprofen, and apply ice to the finger to reduce pain and swelling.

In some finger dislocations, the bones in the finger will reposition themselves and may leave the finger with no visible deformity. This does not mean, however, that the damage to the finger is any less serious.