Aftercare for a broken finger

A broken finger usually takes between two and eight weeks to heal, dependingonwhich part of the finger is brokenand how severethe breakis.

It may be a fewmonths before full strength returns to the affected finger.

While you're waiting for your follow-up appointment:

• try to avoid using the affected handand disturbing the splint
• take over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve any discomfort
• raise the affected hand above the level of your heart when you can to help reduce swelling tryresting it on a cushion while sitting and sleeping
• hold an ice pack, or something like a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a cloth, against the finger for about 10 minutes, three or four times a daythis can also help reduce any swelling

The splint will be removedwhen the bone has healed. This will be after about two to three weeks for most people.

Once the splint is taken off,keeping the finger moving as much as possible willhelpstop it becoming stiff. A physiotherapist may be able to advise you aboutsome gentle hand exercises.

Your doctor will be able to advise you about when you can return to contact sports or other activities that put a lot of strain on your fingers.