Overcoming Stiffness After Open Finger Fracture: Rehabilitation Tips

The space between bones?

I suffered an open fracture of my right hand's ring finger from a fall in October two years ago.
Due to the severity of the injury, I only started rehabilitation in February of last year.
However, my physical therapist informed me that the rehabilitation has not been very effective.
As of now, I am unable to bend my finger when applying force, and sometimes it feels uncomfortable.
I really hope that I can bend and move my finger again.
What should I do?

yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/07

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Typically, the first three months after a finger joint injury are considered the golden period for recovery.
After this time, it becomes quite difficult to regain full range of motion.
You can try rehabilitation exercises to gradually bend the finger.
Start with warm compresses, then gently move the joint to see how much mobility can be restored.

Reply Date: 2016/01/07

More Info

Overcoming stiffness after an open finger fracture can be a challenging process, especially when significant trauma has occurred. It’s understandable that you are feeling frustrated with your current situation, particularly since you have been undergoing rehabilitation for some time without seeing the desired results. Here are some comprehensive rehabilitation tips and strategies that may help you regain mobility and function in your finger.

1. Consult with a Specialist
First and foremost, it is crucial to consult with a hand specialist or a physical therapist who specializes in hand rehabilitation. They can assess your specific condition, including the extent of stiffness and any underlying issues that may be contributing to your limited range of motion. They may also recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, to evaluate the healing of the bone and surrounding soft tissues.

2. Gentle Range of Motion Exercises
Once you have the go-ahead from your healthcare provider, start with gentle range of motion exercises. These exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness. Here are a few examples:
- Finger Flexion and Extension: Start by gently bending your finger at the joints and then straightening it. Do this slowly and within a pain-free range.

- Tendon Gliding Exercises: These exercises involve moving your fingers through various positions to promote tendon movement and prevent adhesions. For example, you can start with your fingers straight, then bend them into a hook position, and finally into a full fist.

3. Heat Therapy
Applying heat to your hand before exercises can help relax the muscles and improve blood flow, making it easier to move your finger. You can use a warm towel, a heating pad, or soak your hand in warm water for 10-15 minutes before starting your exercises.

4. Cold Therapy
If you experience swelling or discomfort after exercising, applying ice can help reduce inflammation. Use an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for about 15-20 minutes after your exercises.

5. Strengthening Exercises
As you regain some mobility, you can start incorporating strengthening exercises. Use therapy putty or a stress ball to improve grip strength. Start with light resistance and gradually increase as your strength improves.

6. Splinting
In some cases, a splint may be recommended to help maintain the finger in a functional position while allowing for movement. A therapist can provide guidance on how to use a splint effectively during your rehabilitation.

7. Consistency is Key
Rehabilitation requires consistency and patience. Aim to perform your exercises several times a day, even if it’s just for a few minutes at a time. Keeping a daily log of your exercises and progress can help you stay motivated.

8. Consider Occupational Therapy
If you find that traditional physical therapy isn’t yielding the results you hoped for, consider seeking occupational therapy. Occupational therapists can provide specialized techniques and adaptive strategies to help you regain function in daily activities.

9. Mind-Body Techniques
Incorporating mind-body techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or visualization can also be beneficial. These practices can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall mental well-being, which can positively impact your rehabilitation process.

10. Surgical Options
If conservative measures do not yield improvements, discuss with your doctor the possibility of surgical intervention. In some cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to release tight tendons or repair any structural issues that are preventing movement.

Conclusion
Rehabilitation after an open finger fracture can be a long and sometimes frustrating journey, but with the right approach and support, you can make significant progress. Be proactive in your rehabilitation, communicate openly with your healthcare providers, and remain patient with yourself as you work towards regaining full function in your finger. Remember, every small improvement is a step towards your goal of restoring movement and comfort.

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