Swelling and Pain in the Pinky Finger Joint - Orthopedics

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Swelling and pain in the pinky finger joint, especially after an injury like the one you described from boxing, can be concerning. It sounds like you may have sustained a sprain or even a more serious injury, such as a fracture or ligament damage, which can lead to persistent swelling and pain. Given that you have already sought treatment through traditional Chinese medicine and have not seen improvement, it is advisable to consider further evaluation by a medical professional, particularly an orthopedic specialist.

When you injure a joint, several things can happen. The initial trauma can cause inflammation, leading to swelling, pain, and reduced range of motion. In your case, the visible swelling on the back of your hand indicates that there is likely some degree of inflammation present. This inflammation can be due to various factors, including:
1. Soft Tissue Injury: Sprains, strains, or tears in the ligaments or tendons surrounding the joint can cause significant pain and swelling. These injuries may not always be visible on the surface but can lead to chronic issues if not properly treated.

2. Fractures: If the force applied during your boxing practice was significant, there is a possibility of a fracture in the bones of the finger or hand. Fractures can sometimes be subtle and may not be immediately obvious without imaging studies like X-rays.

3. Joint Effusion: This is the accumulation of fluid in the joint space, which can occur after an injury. It can lead to increased swelling and pain, especially when trying to move the joint.

4. Tendonitis or Tenosynovitis: Overuse or injury can lead to inflammation of the tendons or the sheath surrounding the tendons, causing pain and swelling.

5. Infection: Although less common, if there was an open wound or if the injury was severe, there is a risk of infection, which can also cause swelling and pain.

Given that you have already undergone some treatment without improvement, it is crucial to seek further medical evaluation. An orthopedic specialist can perform a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies, to determine the exact cause of your symptoms. They may recommend treatments such as:
- Rest and Immobilization: Keeping the finger immobilized can help reduce swelling and allow the injury to heal.

- Ice Therapy: Applying ice can help reduce swelling and numb the pain.

- Physical Therapy: Once the initial pain and swelling decrease, physical therapy can help restore strength and range of motion.

- Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and inflammation.

- Surgical Intervention: In cases of severe injury, such as fractures or significant ligament damage, surgery may be necessary to repair the joint.

In conclusion, while it is common to experience swelling and pain after an injury, the persistence of these symptoms warrants further investigation. It is essential to address any underlying issues to prevent long-term complications, especially since you are involved in a physically demanding sport like boxing. Seeking the advice of a healthcare professional will provide you with the best course of action for recovery.