Should You See a Doctor for Post-Injury Finger Swelling?

Hand problems

Hello, two weeks ago, I injured my middle finger when a car door slammed on it.
My ring finger and pinky were also affected; the middle finger was completely red and swollen with a bleeding wound, while the pinky was only red and swollen.
Afterward, since the finger function seemed unaffected, I only applied topical medication for the external injury.
However, two weeks later, the external injuries have healed, and the redness and swelling have subsided, but the original injury site has become swollen again, and there is a hard lump that is painful to touch.
Despite this, the finger function remains normal.
I would like to know if I should seek medical attention or if I can wait for the swelling to subside.
Thank you.

Ms. Zhang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/04

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics

Hello, please continue to observe.
If you are still concerned, you can visit the orthopedic outpatient clinic for further examination.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2017/05/04

More Info

It sounds like you've experienced a significant injury to your fingers, and while it's encouraging that the initial swelling and wounds have improved, the presence of a hard lump and ongoing pain is concerning. Based on your description, it would be wise to consult a doctor, particularly a hand specialist or an orthopedic surgeon, for a thorough evaluation.

Injuries to the fingers, especially those involving crushing or pinching, can lead to various complications, including soft tissue damage, ligament injuries, or even fractures that may not be immediately apparent. The hard lump you mentioned could be a sign of several potential issues, such as:
1. Hematoma: This is a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels, often resulting from trauma. It can cause swelling and pain, and while it may resolve on its own, it can sometimes require drainage if it becomes too large or painful.

2. Scar Tissue Formation: After an injury, the body forms scar tissue as part of the healing process. This tissue can sometimes become thickened or fibrous, leading to lumps that may be tender to the touch.

3. Joint or Ligament Injury: The pain and lump could indicate an underlying issue with the ligaments or joints in your fingers. Even if the range of motion seems normal, there could be internal damage that needs to be assessed.

4. Infection: If the initial injury involved a break in the skin, there's a risk of infection, which can lead to swelling, redness, and pain. If the area around the original injury site is red, warm, or increasingly painful, this could be a sign of infection.

Given that your symptoms have persisted for two weeks and you are experiencing pain upon touch, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional will likely perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays or an MRI, to assess for any fractures, ligament injuries, or other soft tissue damage.

In terms of treatment, the approach will depend on the specific diagnosis. If it is a hematoma, the doctor may recommend rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) to help reduce swelling. If there is significant scar tissue or a ligament injury, physical therapy may be necessary to restore function and strength. In some cases, if there is a fracture or severe ligament damage, surgical intervention may be required.

It's also important to consider your daily activities, especially if you rely on your hands for work or hobbies, such as playing an instrument. Delaying treatment could lead to long-term complications, including chronic pain or reduced function, which could impact your ability to perform tasks you enjoy.

In summary, while some minor injuries can heal on their own, the persistence of pain and the development of a hard lump warrant a professional evaluation. It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to injuries, especially those involving the hands and fingers, as they are crucial for many daily activities. Seeking medical advice will help ensure that any underlying issues are addressed promptly, allowing you to return to your normal activities as soon as possible.

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