Jammed Finger

A jammed finger is an injury to the ligaments that support your finger bones. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones and keep them in place. The injury happens when the ligaments are stretched beyond their normal range of motion (sprained).
CAUSES

This injury is caused by a blow to the tip of your finger that pushes your finger toward your hand.
RISK FACTORS

This injury is more likely to develop if you play sports.
SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of this injury include:

Pain.

Swelling.

Discoloration and bruising around the joint.

Difficulty bending or straightening the finger.

Not being able to use the finger normally.

DIAGNOSIS

Your health care provider may suspect a jammed finger based on …show more content…
Depending on the type of injury, you may also have to do exercises after your finger has begun to heal. This helps you regain strength and mobility in the finger.
HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS

Take medicines only as directed by your health care provider.

Apply ice to the injured area:

Put ice in a plastic bag.

Place a towel between your skin and the bag.

Leave the ice on for 20 minutes, 2–3 times per day.

Raise the injured area above the level of your heart while you are sitting or lying down.

Wear the splint or tape as directed by your health care provider. Remove it only as directed by your health care provider.

Rest your finger until your health care provider says you can move it again. Your finger may feel stiff and painful at first.

Perform strengthening exercises as directed by your health care provider. It may help to start doing these exercises with your hand in a bowl of warm water.

Keep all follow-up visits as directed by your health care provider. This is important.

SEEK MEDICAL CARE IF:

You have pain or swelling that is getting worse.

Your finger feels cold.

Your finger looks different at the joint