Injury to Left Index Finger: Healing Concerns After Door Accident

The left index finger was caught in the car door?

On December 5th at 1 AM, my index finger was caught in a car door.
Initially, I applied ice, but I endured the pain until the morning when I went to a general surgery clinic.
The doctor administered anesthesia and drained the blood from the injury, then applied medication and wrapped it up.
I had the dressing changed three times, and later he prescribed a topical ointment (Neomycin ointment) for me to apply at home.
When I asked the doctor how long it would take to heal, he said 3-4 days.
I mentioned that it still hurt, and he explained that the pain was due to the internal injury not healing yet.

Now, on the fifth day since the injury, I’ve noticed that the tip of my finger still cannot bend and is somewhat swollen.
Is this normal, or could there be a fracture? Since the injury, I have kept my left hand very still, and my index finger hasn’t moved much.
Also, does the wound need to be covered with a bandage? Should I clean it with water, or is iodine sufficient for disinfection? Thank you, doctor.

An An, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/10

Dr. Li Qinglong reply Surgery

You may need to return to the surgical outpatient clinic to have your finger condition evaluated in person before we can fully address your inquiry.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2016/12/10

More Info

Injuries to the fingers, particularly from incidents like being caught in a car door, can lead to a range of complications, including pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing ongoing pain and swelling in your left index finger five days post-injury. While some discomfort is expected after such an injury, persistent pain and swelling could indicate that the healing process is not progressing as it should.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that the healing of soft tissue injuries can vary significantly from person to person. Factors such as the severity of the injury, the extent of soft tissue damage, and individual healing rates all play a role. In your case, the fact that you are still experiencing pain and swelling suggests that there may be more than just superficial damage. It is possible that there could be underlying issues such as a fracture, ligament injury, or nerve damage that may not have been fully assessed during your initial visit.

Regarding your concerns about whether the pain and swelling are normal, it is not uncommon for fingers to remain swollen and painful for several days after an injury. However, if the pain is severe, or if you notice that the swelling is not decreasing or is worsening, it would be prudent to seek further medical evaluation. An X-ray may be necessary to rule out any fractures or other injuries that could be contributing to your symptoms.

As for the care of your wound, it is essential to keep it clean to prevent infection. If your doctor has advised you to apply Neomycin ointment, continue to do so as directed. You can clean the area gently with mild soap and water, avoiding harsh chemicals like iodine unless specifically instructed by your healthcare provider. Covering the wound with a sterile bandage or an "OK band" can help protect it from dirt and further injury, but make sure to change the dressing regularly to keep the area clean and dry.

In terms of mobility, it is crucial to start gentle range-of-motion exercises as soon as it is tolerable. Keeping your finger immobilized for an extended period can lead to stiffness and decreased function. However, you should avoid forcing any movement that causes significant pain. Gradually introducing movement can help in regaining function and reducing stiffness.

If you continue to experience significant pain, swelling, or if you notice any changes such as increased redness, warmth, or discharge from the wound, it is essential to return to your healthcare provider. They may consider referring you to a specialist, such as an orthopedic surgeon, for further evaluation and management.

In summary, while some pain and swelling are expected after a finger injury, persistent symptoms warrant further investigation. Proper wound care, gentle mobilization, and monitoring for signs of complications are crucial for optimal recovery. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific situation.

Similar Q&A

Post-Injury Pain in Left Index Finger: Healing Challenges and Solutions

On March 19, I injured my left index finger at work. The emergency doctor was unable to stitch the wound due to severe tissue damage. Although the surface has healed, I still experience pain when applying pressure, which prevents me from playing the guitar freely and recording vi...

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
You should consult your attending physician about this issue, as they are most familiar with your condition and can help you choose the appropriate medication.

Do I Need Rehabilitation for a Finger Injury from a Car Door?

Hello, Director Chen! This afternoon on February 4th, my right index finger got caught in a car door. The bone seems to be fine, but there is severe bruising from the nail to the joint. Do I need to undergo rehabilitation? Will there be any long-term effects? Thank you!

Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. Apply ice packs during the acute phase. 2. In the subacute phase, alternating hot and cold baths can be performed (hot water at approximately 40 degrees Celsius and cold water at about 10-12 degrees Celsius; immerse in hot water for 5 minutes, then in cold water for 1 minute, ...

Understanding Finger Injury Recovery: Healing Time and Symptoms Explained

Hello, Dr. Ko. A while ago, I injured the left side of the nail on my right index finger and had three stitches. It has been two weeks since the stitches were removed, and the wound is healing slowly. However, my index finger still experiences numbness and swelling, and I even ha...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
The sensory nerves of the fingers are located on the sides of the fingertips. Therefore, if the injury occurs on the side, there is a possibility that the sensory nerves may be affected. If the injury is fortunate enough to only involve swelling and compression of the wound, reco...

Addressing Post-Traumatic Nerve Issues After Finger Laceration

Hello, doctor. Five years ago, I accidentally injured my left index finger while operating a machine, which required several stitches. The wound has healed, but I am experiencing abnormal sensations in the area where the stitches were placed (there is very poor tactile sensation)...

Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery
This is an old injury from five years ago. It is likely that the digital nerve was damaged at that time. Since the wound has been present for a long time, it is possible that even if the nerve has reconnected, there may not be any improvement.