Finger Joint Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Finger joint pain

Hello doctor, my right hand's ring finger and the joint connecting it to my palm hurt when I bend the finger down.
I previously played basketball, and to avoid colliding with an opponent, I used my right ring finger to touch the ground and flipped forward.
After the game, I applied ice, thinking it would heal in a few days, but now, three weeks later, it still hurts.
Two weeks after the injury, I visited a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for adjustment, but there was still no improvement.
I can still carry out my daily activities normally, but bending it to a certain degree causes significant pain in the joint between my palm and finger.
Could this situation indicate a dislocation or misalignment of the joint, and do I need to go to the hospital for an examination?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/27

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

If there is swelling, significant pain upon pressure, and limited joint mobility, it is necessary to check for any fractures.
If none of these conditions are present, it typically takes about six to eight weeks for recovery.

Reply Date: 2015/12/27

More Info

Understanding finger joint pain, especially after an injury, is crucial for proper management and recovery. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing persistent pain in the joint connecting your right hand's ring finger to your palm after a basketball-related injury. This type of pain can arise from various causes, including ligament sprains, joint instability, or even cartilage damage.

When you injured your finger by using it to brace yourself during a fall, it is possible that you may have strained or sprained the ligaments around the joint. Ligaments are tough bands of tissue that connect bones to each other and provide stability to the joint. If these ligaments are overstretched or torn, it can lead to pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. The fact that you have been experiencing pain for three weeks suggests that the injury may not be healing as expected, which warrants further investigation.

Ice therapy is a common initial treatment for acute injuries, as it helps reduce swelling and numb the pain. However, if pain persists beyond the typical recovery period (usually 1-2 weeks for minor sprains), it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough examination, which may include imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, to assess for any fractures, dislocations, or other underlying issues that may not be visible through a physical examination alone.

You mentioned that you sought treatment from a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, but if you are still experiencing significant pain, it may be beneficial to consult an orthopedic specialist. They can provide a more targeted approach to your condition, which may include physical therapy, bracing, or even corticosteroid injections if inflammation is significant.
In terms of your concern about joint dislocation or misalignment, while these conditions can cause similar symptoms, they are typically accompanied by visible deformity or significant swelling. If you have not noticed any such signs, it may be less likely, but only a medical professional can confirm this through appropriate diagnostic measures.

Additionally, it is important to consider the impact of your daily activities on your recovery. If you are engaging in activities that require significant use of your hands, such as playing sports or typing, you may inadvertently be exacerbating the injury. It might be wise to modify these activities temporarily to allow for healing.

In summary, persistent pain in the finger joint after an injury should not be ignored. It is essential to seek medical evaluation to rule out any serious injuries and to receive appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent long-term complications and ensure that you can return to your normal activities, including playing sports and other hand-intensive tasks, without pain. Remember, your health and well-being should always come first, so do not hesitate to reach out for professional help.

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