A jammed finger develops when the extensor tendon suffers damage. Go through this article to learn more about the treatment for the condition.

A jammed finger is an impact injury, wherein the affected person experiences finger joint pain and swelling. This condition can be mild to severe, and may include finger fracture and joint dislocation. The symptoms, treatment, and recovery, is based on the severity of the injury.

Causes

There are tendons that extend from the forearm to the fingers. These extensor tendons are located on the back of the hand and the fingers. A jammed finger is basically, an injury to the extensor tendon. This tendon gets stretched or damaged as a result of some forceful impact. Such a condition may also involve fracture of the finger bone, to which the tendon is attached. Anybody can develop this condition, but, it is mostly observed in sportspersons, who have to use their hands and fingers regularly. Such finger injuries are more common in sports, like tennis, baseball, basketball, and rugby. Sometimes, you reach out to catch the ball, which accidentally hits the tip of the finger/fingers. This impact may cause damage to the extensor tendon. In most cases, the tendon ruptures at the point, where it is attached to the proximal interphalangeal joint (the joint between the middle bone of the finger and the bone that lies next to the hand). This joint bends and forms a curve, which may get difficult to extend. It is not necessary that only those who indulge in sports develop this condition. It can also occur when your fingers get caught in a car door or if something heavy falls on them.

Treatment

The symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, numbness, and loss of motion or difficulty in moving fingers. The severity of the symptoms may vary with the type of injury. A deformity or complete loss of mobility of the finger may point towards a fracture or serious dislocation, which needs immediate medical attention. Jammed finger treatment is also decided as per the severity of the injury.

It is said that the most effective remedy is to pull the finger out of the jam. However, this is not applicable for severe cases, like a fracture or dislocation. If the symptoms are mild with very little swelling, you can apply ice over the injured area. You may also try some remedy for a common sprain. However, if the swelling or pain increases, or if the finger turns white or blue, you have to consult your health care provider. If it is too painful for you to move the finger, then it will be better to immobilize the finger with a splint or gauze. You may also tie the adjoining finger with the injured one, for support. In case of very severe injuries, prefer an arm sling. In short, the treatment for jammed finger is based on the severity and type of injury, with serious cases requiring immediate medical attention. Mild cases recover completely within a short time. However, in case of a fracture or dislocation, healing and recovery may take some weeks or even months. Physical therapy may also speed up the process of recovery.

A jammed finger can cause momentary numbness and pain in almost all cases. Immediate medical attention is required, if the condition worsens; or additional symptoms, like swelling and difficulty in movement develop.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.