Finger Fracture Treatment in Illinois

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Each human hand relies on more than two dozen bones to execute precise movements. Among them, finger bones make it possible to grasp small objects, throw a ball, grip a racket, and carry-off countless everyday activities. Like other hand bones, the small bones of the fingers are susceptible to dislocation and fracture, particularly among active adults. Because fingers are integral to manual dexterity, a fracture not only causes pain, but a broken digit may also affect the way the entire hand performs.

Cause of Finger Fracture

Broken fingers are typically caused by acute trauma to the affected hand. Sports injuries, for instance may lead to finger fractures. Awkwardly catching a football can result in a “jammed” or broken finger. And extending a hand to break a fall on the playing field may also result in a sports-related finger fracture.

Description of Finger Fracture

Finger fractures are not limited to particular bones, but some fingers are broken more frequently than others. Bones involved with the little finger, for example, account for a substantial share of broken hand bones. Although finger bones are relatively small, failure to treat a broken finger can have lasting consequences, leading to decreased hand functioning and disability.

Several types of fractures break finger bones. Crushing injuries are common, affecting fingertips, and a break called a mallet fracture impacts function in the DIP joints, between the second and third finger bones (phalanges). Substantial impact trauma may cause a break in the middle of a finger bone, between joints.

Because of the interdependent relationship between hand bones and soft tissue, and the potential for complications, complex breaks call for specialized evaluation and treatment. Intervention ranges from conservative measures, like taping fingers for support, to hand and finger surgery.

Symptoms of Finger Fracture

Depending upon the location and severity of the break, a finger fracture may present these and other symptoms:

• Swelling of fracture site
• Tenderness and bruising at fracture site
• May have a hard time moving or stiffer movement
• Deformity of injured finger
• Finger may be stiff and painful

Schedule an appointment with one of our specialists today at (630) 584-1400.