How long does a broken finger need to be splinted?

Usually a splint on a fractured finger is worn for about 3 weeks. You may need more x-rays over this time so that your doctor can monitor the progress of your finger as it heals.

Can you walk with a broken finger?

You may still be able to move your finger even though it’s broken. But moving it will usually cause pain. Sometimes the pain will be dull and not too much for you to bear.

Is it OK to leave a broken finger untreated?

When a bone fracture is untreated, it can result in either a nonunion or a delayed union. In the former case, the bone doesn’t heal at all, which means that it will remain broken. As a result, swelling, tenderness, and pain will continue to worsen over time.

Is my finger broken or just sprained?

What is the difference between a sprained finger and a broken finger? Sprained fingers and broken fingers have many of the same symptoms. But broken fingers involve injuries to the bones, while sprained fingers involve soft tissue injuries. Broken fingers tend to cause more pain and need immediate medical treatment.

How do you elevate a broken finger?

Elevate your finger above the level of your heart as often as you can. This will help decrease swelling and pain. Prop your hand on pillows or blankets to keep it elevated comfortably. Go to physical therapy as directed.

How long do sprained fingers take to heal?

Though sprains may be painful, most mild finger sprains heal in about a week. More severe sprains require at least three to six weeks to heal fully, but may remain swollen and tender for a significantly longer period of time in some cases.

How do you sleep with a broken finger?

Invest in a specialized pillow, like a body pillow, for elevation—keeping the broken bone above your heart prevents blood from pooling and causing swelling. Try sleeping on your back first while propped up on a few pillows.

What to do if broken finger didnt heal properly?

Method 2 of 4: Treating the Finger on the Way to the Doctor Download Article Apply ice to the finger. Wrap the ice in a towel and apply it to the finger on your way to the emergency room. Make a splint. A splint will keep your finger elevated and hold it in place. Try to remove any rings or jewelry. If possible, try to slide off any rings on your finger before the finger swells. Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) to treat the pain.

How long will it take a broken finger to heal?

An uncomplicated and properly treated finger fracture, immobilized so the two ends of bone can grow back together, usually heals within four to six weeks; small bones might heal within three weeks, according to an article in the April 2009 issue of “The University of Central Florida Undergraduate Research Journal.”

How to recover from a broken finger?

The emergency doctor or an orthopedic surgeon will assess the stability of the broken finger. If the fracture is stable, treatment may be as simple as splinting 1 finger to another by taping them together. The splint will be left in place for about 4 weeks followed by an additional 2 weeks with no strenuous exercise.

What should I do if I think I broke my finger?

Broken fingers should be treated by medical professionals; however, a person can minimize some pain and stabilize the injury on the way to seek medical treatment. To reduce swelling and bruising, apply ice to the injured finger on the way to an emergency department. Do not apply ice directly to the skin; put a towel between the ice and the finger.