Persistent Pain and Bruising After Finger Injury: When to Seek Help

Car accident resulting in injury to the little finger?

Hello Doctor: I was in a car accident on December 15th, where I injured my little finger.
It became swollen and bruised.
I had an X-ray, and the doctor at that time said there was no bone injury.
Even now, my finger still has bruising, and I can feel pain when I press on the bruised area.
I would like to ask why this is happening? If I need to see a doctor, which specialty should I consult?

Mr. Huang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/04

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery

Hello! If there is a bruise without swelling, you can apply a warm compress.
It's normal for small nerves to be affected when tissues are injured, which may cause pain for a while.
If there is no infection, you don't need to worry about it, unless there is a thick hematoma that hasn't been absorbed, in which case drainage may be recommended.
You might want to consult a general surgeon first.
Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you!

Reply Date: 2017/01/04

More Info

Persistent pain and bruising after a finger injury can be concerning, especially when symptoms linger for an extended period. In your case, having sustained an injury to your little finger during a car accident on December 15, and still experiencing bruising and pain, it is important to consider a few factors.

Firstly, it is not uncommon for bruising to persist for several weeks after an injury, particularly if the injury was significant. Bruises occur when small blood vessels are damaged, allowing blood to leak into the surrounding tissues. This can lead to discoloration and tenderness in the affected area. However, if the bruising and pain have not improved significantly over time, it may indicate that there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

Given that you have already had an X-ray that ruled out any fractures, the persistent symptoms could be due to a few reasons:
1. Soft Tissue Injury: Injuries to ligaments, tendons, or muscles can take longer to heal than bone injuries. If the soft tissues around your little finger were damaged, it could lead to ongoing pain and discomfort.

2. Scar Tissue Formation: After an injury, scar tissue can form in the affected area. This tissue can sometimes be sensitive or painful, especially if it is restricting movement or causing discomfort during activities.

3. Nerve Involvement: If the injury affected any nerves in the area, it could lead to persistent pain or altered sensations, such as tingling or numbness.

4. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Although rare, CRPS can develop after an injury and is characterized by prolonged pain, swelling, and changes in skin color or temperature. It is important to be aware of this condition, especially if your symptoms are severe or worsening.

In terms of seeking medical help, it would be advisable to consult with a specialist who can provide a thorough evaluation of your condition. You should consider seeing an orthopedic specialist, as they are trained to handle injuries related to bones, joints, and soft tissues. If there are concerns about nerve involvement, a consultation with a neurologist may also be beneficial.

When you visit the doctor, be prepared to discuss your symptoms in detail, including the nature of the pain, any changes in sensation, and how the injury has affected your daily activities. The doctor may perform a physical examination and could recommend additional imaging studies, such as an MRI, to assess the soft tissues more thoroughly.

In the meantime, managing your symptoms with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) can help reduce swelling and pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may also provide relief. However, it is essential to follow up with a healthcare provider to ensure that you receive appropriate care tailored to your specific situation.

In summary, while it is not unusual for bruising and pain to persist after an injury, the duration and severity of your symptoms warrant further evaluation. Seeking help from an orthopedic specialist will allow for a comprehensive assessment and appropriate management of your condition.

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