Can Finger Joint Dislocation Be Treated Effectively?

Finger joint dislocation

In childhood, the little finger was suddenly pulled by a curtain, causing a slight dislocation of the distal joint.
Visually, the distal phalanx of the little finger is displaced towards the middle finger, but there are no other abnormalities.
The rehabilitation physician mentioned that it is difficult to restore, but it may be worth consulting an orthopedic specialist to see if joint reduction is possible.

Fu Lin Ji, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/26

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics

Hello, finger injuries should be addressed immediately for the best outcome.
If the deformity has persisted for more than three weeks, it often cannot be corrected.
If the deformity affects daily life, surgical correction may be necessary, which could lead to joint stiffness as a complication.
If you have any questions, it is advisable to consult an orthopedic clinic for further examination.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2024/01/26

More Info

Finger joint dislocation, particularly in the case of a mild dislocation such as the one you described with your ring finger, can often be treated effectively, but the success of treatment largely depends on the specifics of the injury and the timing of intervention. When a finger joint is dislocated, the bones that form the joint are forced out of their normal position. This can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the finger.
In your case, since the dislocation occurred during childhood and appears to be mild, there may still be options for treatment. The first step is to have a thorough evaluation by an orthopedic specialist who can assess the extent of the dislocation and any potential damage to the surrounding ligaments, tendons, and cartilage.
Treatment Options:
1. Reduction: If the dislocation is still present, the first course of action is often to perform a reduction, which is a procedure to realign the dislocated joint. This is typically done under local anesthesia or sedation, depending on the severity of the dislocation and the patient's comfort level.
2. Immobilization: After reduction, the finger may need to be immobilized with a splint or buddy tape (taping the injured finger to an adjacent finger) to allow for healing and to prevent re-dislocation. The duration of immobilization can vary but is generally around 3-6 weeks.

3. Rehabilitation: Once the joint has healed, physical therapy may be recommended to restore range of motion, strength, and function. Rehabilitation exercises can help prevent stiffness and improve the overall function of the finger.

4. Surgery: In cases where there is significant damage to the ligaments or if the joint does not stabilize after reduction, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgery can help repair any torn ligaments and stabilize the joint.

Prognosis:
The prognosis for recovery from a finger joint dislocation is generally good, especially if treated promptly and appropriately. Many individuals regain full function of the finger, although some may experience lingering stiffness or weakness.
Considerations:
- Timing: The sooner the dislocation is treated, the better the chances for a full recovery. Chronic dislocations or those that have not been treated for a long time may lead to complications such as arthritis or chronic pain.

- Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are crucial to monitor the healing process and to make adjustments to your treatment plan as necessary.

- Self-Care: After treatment, it's important to follow your doctor's advice regarding activity restrictions and rehabilitation exercises to ensure the best possible outcome.

In conclusion, while your finger joint dislocation may have occurred some time ago, there are still potential treatment options available. Consulting with an orthopedic specialist will provide you with the best course of action tailored to your specific situation. Early intervention can significantly improve your chances of a successful recovery and restore function to your finger.

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