A finger dislocation is a common joint injury in which the finger bones move apart or sideways causing the ends of the bones to be misaligned. Finger dislocations usually happen when the finger is bent backward beyond its normal limit of motion. Although any joint of the finger can be dislocated, the most commonly dislocated are the proximal interphalangeal joints (PIP) or middle joints, of the little, ring, middle and index fingers.
Symptoms
- Pain
- Visible deformity of joint
- Swelling
- Discoloration
- Abnormal movement or rotation of finger
- Inability to move joint
Causes
- “Jamming” force to the end of the finger
- Excessive or forceful extension of finger
- Finger getting caught on equipment or another players uniform
Risk Factors
- Playing a contact sport (football, hockey, rugby)
- Playing sports such as (basketball, football, soccer, rugby) where players may accidentally strike the ball, ground, or another player.
- Working with or around machinery
Prevention
- Proper form when playing contact sports
- Wear protective gloves when applicable
- Remove rings when participating in athletics or working with machinery
Diagnosis
Your doctor will discuss your symptoms, review your medical history, and perform a thorough physical examination of your finger.
- X-ray: An x-ray will be performed to determine the placement of the dislocated bone and identify any fractures.
Treatment
- There are non-surgical and surgical treatment options
