Finger injury
Treatments for a broken finger
You'll be assessed by atrained practitioner, who will determine what tests and treatments are needed.
An X-ray will usually be carried out to confirm whether your finger is broken, dislocated,or sprained.
If it's fractured:
- the bonemay need to be moved back into place an injection of local anaesthetic is given to numb the area anda doctor then realigns the bone
- your finger will be put in a splint or plaster cast, or may be strapped to the finger next to it this will hold the bone in positionuntil it heals
For open fractures, the wound will be cleaned surgically before the fracture is treated. You may also need a tetanus jab and antibiotics to help prevent infection.
You'llbe able to go homeonce the splint, cast, or strapping is in place. A follow-up appointment to check how your finger is healing may be arranged before you leave.
Surgery may be required if the fracture is particularly severe and there has been damage to nearby nerves, tendons, or other tissue. The fracture may also need to be stabilised by fixing the bone with small wires or plates and screws.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Find out how to tell if you have a broken finger, what you should do, and how long it takes to heal.
Symptoms of a broken finger
A broken finger may be: painful, swollen, and bruised stiff or difficult to move pointing in an unusual direction numb In some cases, the broken bone may poke through the skin (an open fracture
What to do if you've broken your finger
You should get medical help if you think you've broken your finger see below for information about where to go if you've broken your finger . While you're waiting for medical help: avoid moving th
Where to get medical help
If you think you've broken your finger, you should go to your nearest minor injuries unit , urgent care centre, or walk-in centre as soon as possible. Find yournearest minor injuries unit, urgent car
Treatments for a broken finger
You'll be assessed by atrained practitioner, who will determine what tests and treatments are needed. An X-ray will usually be carried out to confirm whether your finger is broken, dislocated,or spra
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 af
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