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Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners
What should be done to treat a finger dislocation?
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My son has dislocated his finger playing cricket a couple of times. The last time it happened was 3 weeks ago and it's still swollen and stiff. -
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Dr Jillian Tomlinson
Hand Surgeon, Plastic Surgeon
Dr Jill Tomlinson is a fully qualified plastic, reconstructive and hand surgeon. After graduating dux in her year at University High School, Jill completed medical … View Profile
Finger dislocations are often self-treated but for optimal outcomes it is wise to seek specialist treatment. An x-ray will show whether the joint is in the correct position and will sometimes pick up minor or major fractures that can co-exist with a dislocation.
It is common for a finger to be swollen 3 weeks after a dislocation but active treatment of this swelling with compression will allow this to settle more quickly. Frequent, specific exercises will help to regain full movement. Splinting and buddy-taping are used to provide support to the joint ligaments, to reduce the likelihood of future joint instability.
A joint that has had recurrent dislocations may become unstable and be more likely to dislocate again. It may also be more likely to have post-traumatic arthritis, as the joint surfaces may be damaged.
I recommend that your son have an x-ray of the affected finger and seek treatment from a hand specialist. For more information on finger, hand and wrist dislocations please visit Melbourne Hand Surgery.Report this post
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