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Finger Fracture

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition

Finger Fracture

(Broken Finger)

Definition

A finger fracture is a break in any of the bones in a finger.

Finger Fracture.

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Causes

This injury is caused by trauma from:

  • Falls
  • Blows
  • Collisions
  • Severe twists

Risk Factors

Playing contact sports may raise your chance of this injury.

Symptoms

Symptoms may be:

  • Pain
  • Swelling and bruising
  • Problems moving the finger
  • Changes in the way the finger looks

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. You will be asked how the injury happened. A physical exam will be done, focusing on your finger.

Images will be taken of your finger. This can be done with x-rays.

Treatment

How it is treated depends on whether the injury is mild or severe. Options may be:

Prevention

This injury is due to an accident. It cannot be prevented.

RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Finger fractures. Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00257.
  • Middle phalanx finger fracture. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/management/middle-phalanx-finger-fracture-emergency-management.
  • Oetgen ME, Dodds SD. Non-operative treatment of common finger injuries. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med. 2008 Jun;1(2):97-102.

Contributors

  • Mark Arredondo, MD
Last Updated:
2023-06-01

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.