Persistent Pain After Finger Cut Healing: What You Should Know

Pain and discomfort persist after healing of a finger laceration?

Hello Doctor, about a month and a half ago, I sustained a minor cut on the second joint of my right index finger.
It was somewhat deep but only bled without any risk of flesh separation, so I treated it myself with medication and a bandage.
A few days later, I remembered that since the injury was on a joint, it might not heal well if I kept bending it, so I used a popsicle stick to help immobilize the finger.
Approximately two weeks later, it began to heal, and once the surface was healed, I stopped using the popsicle stick for support.
However, since then, the area around the wound has remained slightly darker compared to the other joints, and I still experience some mild pain and discomfort when bending the finger.
I am wondering what the possible issues could be or if I should seek medical attention.
Thank you!

Rei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/09

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery

Hello! After a wound has healed, there may still be pain for a while, which varies from person to person; sometimes it may take up to 3 months to improve.
During this period, supplementing with B vitamins can help promote nerve repair.
Of course, pain relief medication is also necessary.
Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/11/09

More Info

Persistent pain after a finger cut can be a common issue, especially when the injury involves a joint or occurs in a location that is frequently used, such as the fingers. In your case, it has been about a month and a half since the injury, and you are experiencing lingering pain and discoloration around the healed area. Here are some insights into what might be happening and whether you should seek further medical attention.

Possible Causes of Persistent Pain
1. Nerve Damage: If the cut was deep enough to affect the nerves in the area, you might experience ongoing pain or discomfort. Nerve injuries can lead to sensations such as tingling, burning, or sharp pain, especially when moving the affected finger.

2. Scar Tissue Formation: After an injury, the body forms scar tissue as part of the healing process. This scar tissue can sometimes be less flexible than the surrounding tissue, leading to discomfort, especially during movement. The discoloration you mentioned may be related to the healing process and the formation of scar tissue.

3. Joint Involvement: Since your injury was near a joint, there may be additional factors at play. Joint injuries can lead to inflammation, which can cause pain during movement. If the joint was affected, it might take longer to heal fully, and you could experience pain when bending or using the finger.

4. Infection: Although you mentioned that the wound was not severe enough to cause significant tissue damage, there is still a possibility of infection. Signs of infection include increased redness, swelling, warmth, and discharge from the wound. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention.

5. Tendon Injury: If the cut was deep enough to involve tendons, this could lead to pain during movement. Tendon injuries can sometimes heal poorly, leading to ongoing discomfort.

When to Seek Medical Attention
Given that you are still experiencing pain and discomfort after a month and a half, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional. Here are some indicators that you should seek further evaluation:
- Persistent Pain: If the pain does not improve or worsens over time, it is essential to have it assessed.

- Functional Limitations: If you find that the pain is significantly limiting your ability to use your finger or perform daily activities, it is time to seek help.

- Signs of Infection: If you notice any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge, you should see a doctor immediately.

- Discoloration: While some discoloration can be normal, if it is accompanied by other symptoms or does not improve, it warrants further investigation.

Management Strategies
In the meantime, here are some strategies you can consider to manage your symptoms:
- Rest and Immobilization: If possible, try to rest the finger and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. You might consider using a splint or buddy taping the finger to an adjacent one for support.

- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and inflammation.

- Physical Therapy: If the pain persists, a physical therapist can provide exercises to improve flexibility and strength in the finger, which may alleviate discomfort.

- Nutritional Support: Ensure you are consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin B and vitamin C, which are essential for healing.

In conclusion, while some pain after a finger injury can be normal, persistent discomfort warrants further evaluation. Consulting with a healthcare professional will help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and guide you toward appropriate treatment options.

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