Effective Treatment and Care for Finger Sprains: Your Essential Guide

Finger sprain

Hello Doctor: I have three questions: 1) I previously sprained my little finger while playing basketball.
Although I can now bend it like normal, I still feel a slight pain when pressure is applied.
What treatment should I pursue now? In the past, I received corticosteroid injections from an orthopedic doctor, but I'm currently not in Taiwan.
Is there an alternative method to injections? 2) My finger still looks swollen.
Is this normal? 3) How should I care for a sprained finger? I heard that icing is recommended, but my orthopedic doctor told me to ice it for the first 48 hours after the sprain and then switch to heat therapy.
Is this method correct? Thank you!

mou, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/03/03

Dr. Luo Zhaozhong reply Orthopedics

Hello! 1.
First, it is important to assess whether using corticosteroids for a fracture is not a good approach; if you are abroad, it is advisable to seek assistance from a qualified orthopedic physician.
2.
It is necessary to evaluate the extent of the injury and whether there are any issues with the bones in order to make an assessment.
3.
The most important management steps are R.I.C.E, which stands for: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
4.
During the acute phase, ice should be applied, while in the chronic phase, heat can be used; however, if heat causes swelling or pain, please revert to using ice.
Best wishes for your health from Dr.
Luo Zhao-Chung, Orthopedic Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2003/03/03

More Info

Hello Mou,
Thank you for your questions regarding the effective treatment and care for finger sprains. It’s great to hear that you’re able to bend your little finger normally after your injury, but I understand that lingering pain and swelling can be concerning. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Treatment for Lingering Pain: Since you mentioned that you previously received steroid injections for pain relief, it’s important to note that while these can be effective, they are not the only option available. If you are currently unable to access your usual healthcare provider in Taiwan, there are alternative methods you can consider. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally, physical therapy exercises can be beneficial. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can improve mobility and reduce discomfort. If the pain persists, consider consulting a local healthcare provider who can assess your condition and recommend appropriate treatments.

2. Swelling: It is not uncommon for a finger to remain slightly swollen after a sprain, especially if the injury was recent. Swelling can be a normal part of the healing process, but it should gradually decrease over time. If the swelling is significant or accompanied by severe pain, bruising, or difficulty moving the finger, it may indicate a more serious injury, such as a fracture or ligament tear. In such cases, it would be wise to seek medical attention for a thorough evaluation.

3. Care for Finger Sprains: The management of finger sprains typically follows the RICE protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Your understanding of the application of ice and heat is correct. For the first 48 hours post-injury, applying ice can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. After this initial period, transitioning to heat can promote blood flow and aid in the healing process. Heat can be applied through warm compresses or heating pads, but be cautious not to apply heat directly to the skin to avoid burns.
In addition to these methods, gentle range-of-motion exercises can help maintain flexibility in your finger. Start with simple movements, such as bending and straightening the finger, and gradually increase the intensity as tolerated. If you experience pain during these exercises, it’s important to stop and rest.

Lastly, wearing a splint or buddy taping the injured finger to an adjacent finger can provide additional support and protection during the healing process. This can help prevent further injury while allowing the finger to heal properly.

In summary, while steroid injections can be effective, there are several alternative treatments available for managing pain and promoting healing in finger sprains. Monitoring the swelling and following the RICE protocol can significantly aid in recovery. If you have any further concerns or if the symptoms do not improve, please seek professional medical advice.

Wishing you a smooth recovery!
Best regards.

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