Finger Injuries: When to See a Family Medicine Specialist

Finger problems / Which specialty should I see?

Two days ago, while playing on a large slide in the park, I lost control of my direction and ended up rolling off the slide at the end.
I used my hand to brace myself against the ground.
Afterward, I noticed a small hole on the outer side of the joint of my left thumb, which looks like something punctured it.
Upon closer inspection, there’s nothing visible now, but it hurts and is getting redder.
Additionally, the flesh under the third joint of my right ring finger is swollen and painful, although there are no visible issues, just a little callus.
I'm not sure if this is related to the force I used to brace myself that day.

Yunfang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/05

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, it is recommended to visit the orthopedic outpatient clinic for evaluation.
Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2023/07/05

More Info

When it comes to finger injuries, especially those resulting from falls or impacts, it's crucial to assess the situation carefully to determine whether you need to see a family medicine specialist or another healthcare provider. Based on your description, it sounds like you may have sustained injuries to both your left thumb and right ring finger, which could involve soft tissue damage, potential ligament injuries, or even fractures.

When to Seek Medical Attention
1. Persistent Pain and Swelling: If you are experiencing ongoing pain, swelling, or redness, as you mentioned, this could indicate an underlying issue that requires medical evaluation. Pain that worsens over time or does not improve with rest and home care is a significant reason to seek medical advice.

2. Visible Deformity or Open Wounds: The presence of a small hole or break in the skin on your left thumb suggests that there may be a puncture wound or laceration. If the wound is deep, shows signs of infection (such as increased redness, warmth, or pus), or if you are unable to move the thumb without pain, you should consult a healthcare professional.

3. Limited Range of Motion: If you find it difficult to move your fingers or if movement is accompanied by severe pain, this could indicate a more serious injury, such as a ligament tear or fracture.
4. Numbness or Tingling: If you experience numbness, tingling, or a "pins and needles" sensation, this could suggest nerve involvement, which warrants immediate medical evaluation.

Recommended Actions
- Initial Care: For minor injuries, you can start with RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation). Apply ice to the affected areas to reduce swelling and pain, and keep your hand elevated when possible.

- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If they worsen or if new symptoms develop, it’s essential to seek medical attention.

When to See a Specialist
If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if you notice any of the following, you should see a family medicine specialist or an orthopedic doctor:
- Increased Pain or Swelling: If the pain becomes more intense or if swelling increases significantly.

- Signs of Infection: If you notice increased redness, warmth, or discharge from the wound.

- Difficulty Moving the Finger: If you cannot bend or straighten your fingers without pain.

- Persistent Numbness or Tingling: If you experience ongoing numbness or tingling in the fingers or hand.

Conclusion
In summary, while some finger injuries can be managed at home, your symptoms suggest that a professional evaluation may be necessary. A family medicine specialist can perform a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies like X-rays, to rule out fractures or other serious injuries. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and a quicker recovery, so don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if your symptoms persist or worsen.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Wound Healing Issues: When to See a Doctor?

Due to friction between the index and ring fingers and a wall during work, the fingertip of the middle finger has a loss of tissue, and the ring finger has a laceration. After one month of healing, the injured area on the fingertip of the middle finger feels hard to the touch and...

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery
Based on your description, this is fibrous tissue that has developed after wound healing. If there are no accompanying symptoms of redness, swelling, or inflammation, it should theoretically improve over time.

How to Assess Finger Injuries: When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

If you have pinched your finger and are experiencing bruising, and currently cannot bend or straighten it, it is uncertain whether there is a fracture. How can you assess the situation, or should you go directly to an orthopedic doctor for evaluation?

Dr. Xie Hongjia reply Orthopedics
Swelling in appearance makes it difficult to determine if there is a fracture, unless there is obvious deformity. It is advisable to consult an orthopedic physician for a safer assessment.

Which Specialist to See for Finger Swelling and Pain?

If you are experiencing intermittent swelling and pain in your fingers, you should schedule an appointment with a rheumatologist or an orthopedic specialist.

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
Hello: You can first visit the rheumatology department to confirm the cause of your condition.

Dealing with Finger Injuries: When to See a Specialist for Recovery

Hello, doctor. Two months ago, I was hit on my little finger while playing basketball. I purchased a topical anti-inflammatory gel from the pharmacy, but it hasn't been effective. I then went to a traditional Chinese medicine clinic for a month, where I received acupuncture,...

Dr. Pan Yingda reply Rehabilitation
Generally, a sprain takes about two weeks to heal, while a more severe one should heal within a month; two months is a bit long. Since you have already tried traditional Chinese medicine, I think it would be best to consult a rehabilitation specialist! (Orthopedics would likely o...