Can a Fractured Pinky Finger Be Corrected After Pin Removal?

Fracture of the little finger?

The left little finger was fractured due to impact and was treated with a steel pin for six weeks.
A few days ago, the pin was removed, but after the removal, the finger is not only more difficult to move but also feels misaligned compared to the little finger on the other hand (it appears to be positioned slightly lower).
I would like to know if this misalignment can be corrected or if it will heal over time.
Thank you for your guidance!

Asd123, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/15

Dr. Lin Jingwei reply Orthopedics

Hello, regarding your recovery situation, since the screws have just been removed, the recovery process is not progressing very quickly.
At this stage, please avoid excessive use of the affected area.
Due to the lack of a visual assessment of your hand condition, I recommend that you consult your attending physician at the original treatment hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/07/15

More Info

When it comes to the healing and correction of a fractured pinky finger, particularly after pin removal, there are several important factors to consider. The healing process of bones, especially in the fingers, can be complex and varies from person to person. After a fracture, especially one that has been treated with pins, it is common to have concerns about alignment, mobility, and overall function of the finger.

First, it's essential to understand that after the removal of pins, the bone may still be in the process of healing. The initial fixation with pins is designed to stabilize the fracture and allow for proper alignment during the healing phase. Once the pins are removed, the bone may still be vulnerable to slight shifts in position, especially if the surrounding soft tissues (like ligaments and tendons) are still healing. This can lead to the finger appearing misaligned or not perfectly straight.

Regarding your specific concern about the deviation of your pinky finger after pin removal, it is possible for some degree of correction to occur over time. The body has a remarkable ability to heal, and with appropriate rehabilitation and therapy, the alignment of the finger can improve. However, the extent of this correction will depend on several factors, including the severity of the initial fracture, the quality of the bone healing, and the effectiveness of any rehabilitation exercises you undertake.

Rehabilitation is crucial in this phase. Engaging in physical therapy can help improve mobility and function of the finger. A physical therapist can provide you with specific exercises designed to strengthen the muscles around the finger and improve its range of motion. This may include gentle stretching and strengthening exercises that can help realign the finger over time.
It’s also important to monitor any pain or discomfort you may experience. Some pain after pin removal is normal, but if you notice significant pain or if the finger appears to be getting worse, it’s essential to consult your physician. They may want to perform imaging studies, such as X-rays, to assess the healing process and determine if any further intervention is necessary.

In terms of whether the deviation can be corrected without surgical intervention, it largely depends on the degree of misalignment and how well the bone has healed. If the misalignment is minor, it may correct itself with time and therapy. However, if the deviation is significant and affects function, your doctor may discuss options for further treatment, which could include splinting, additional therapy, or in some cases, surgical correction.

In conclusion, while there is a possibility for correction of your pinky finger after pin removal, it is essential to engage in rehabilitation and closely monitor your progress. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider will help ensure that your finger heals properly and that any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan can be made. Remember, patience is key in the healing process, and with the right care, many individuals see significant improvement over time.

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