Finger Pain: Nerve Injury or Bone Damage?

Finger issues?

On April 10th, a blood draw was performed using a lancet on the left index finger, approximately one-third from the tip.
After the procedure, the area was disinfected with alcohol and covered with a bandage.
After the wound healed that day, light pressure on the area caused significant pain (pain level around 6).
At the time, I thought it was just an internal injury that hadn't healed.
However, on April 25th, pressing the same area caused pain (pain level around 4).
Am I possibly experiencing nerve damage or a bone injury? Which specialist should I see for a more direct evaluation? Or is it likely to heal on its own?

A Cheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/25

Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery

Hello, a standard blood draw needle will not penetrate to the bone, and there are no major nerves at the tip of the index finger.
It is recommended that you observe for two weeks, as it usually improves on its own.
If there is no improvement, you may consult a general surgeon or a neurosurgeon.
Best wishes.
// Neurosurgeon Dr.
Lai Chao-Kang

Reply Date: 2020/04/25

More Info

When it comes to finger pain following an injury, such as the one you described after using a blood collection needle, it’s essential to understand the underlying mechanisms that could be causing your discomfort. Based on your description, you experienced significant pain upon pressing the affected area, which raises questions about whether you might have sustained nerve damage, bone injury, or other types of tissue trauma.

Firstly, the pain you are experiencing could be attributed to several factors. The area near the fingertip is densely populated with nerve endings, making it particularly sensitive to injury. When you punctured your finger, it’s possible that you not only damaged the skin but also affected the underlying tissues, including nerves and possibly even the bone. The sharp, stabbing pain you describe (with a pain score of 6 out of 10) suggests that there may be some irritation or damage to the nerves in that area.
Nerve injuries can manifest in various ways, including sharp pain, numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation. If the nerve endings were damaged during the puncture, it could explain the persistent pain you feel when applying pressure to the area. Additionally, if there was any swelling or inflammation following the injury, this could further irritate the nerves, leading to increased sensitivity and pain.

On the other hand, it’s also possible that the pain could be related to the bone. If the needle penetrated deeply enough, it could have caused a bone bruise or even a fracture, although this is less common with a needle puncture. Bone injuries typically present with localized pain, swelling, and sometimes bruising. If you are experiencing pain that persists or worsens over time, it could indicate that further evaluation is necessary.

Given the timeline of your symptoms, where the pain has decreased from a score of 6 to 4, it suggests that there may be some healing occurring. However, the fact that you still experience significant pain upon pressure indicates that it may not be fully resolved.
In terms of what to do next, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. You should consider seeing a specialist in either orthopedics or neurology. An orthopedic specialist can assess for any potential bone injuries, while a neurologist can evaluate for nerve damage. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an X-ray or MRI, to get a clearer picture of what’s happening beneath the surface.

In the meantime, you can manage your symptoms with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relief medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain, such as pressing on the affected area, is also crucial for recovery.

In summary, while it’s possible that you may have injured a nerve or bone, a definitive diagnosis can only be made through a clinical evaluation. It’s essential to seek medical advice to ensure proper treatment and to rule out any serious injuries. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider.

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