Broken finger

A broken finger is a common fracture. All fingers except the thumb have three phalanges; the thumb has two. In a broken finger, there is a fracture in one or more of the finger bones. Other terms are finger fracture or phalanx fracture.

How does a broken finger occur?

A broken finger is almost always the result of trauma. Examples include a finger caught in a slamming door, or a fall or hard blow to the hand. Broken fingers also occur regularly in ball sports such as handball, basketball, and korfball, often when a fast-moving ball strikes an outstretched finger.

Different types of finger fractures

There are several types of finger fractures. Multiple factors such as the cause, the location of the break, and bone quality play a role in determining the type of fracture.
- An avulsion fracture, also called a tear-off fracture, is caused by a strong pulling force of a tendon on the bone.
- A stress fracture, also called a fatigue fracture, is caused by repeated loading of the bone.
- A pathological fracture occurs when bone strength or quality is reduced. This occurs mainly in people with osteoporosis or as a result of metastatic cancer in the bone.

Signs of a broken finger

A broken finger is often accompanied by (pressure) pain that worsens when bending and straightening the finger. Immediately after the break, the finger may be crooked. Swelling and discoloration at the site of the break are also possible. If nerves are pinched because of the fracture, the finger may tingle or feel numb.
Sometimes the difference between a broken and a bruised finger is not clear. As a result, people regularly discover late that the finger is actually broken.

How is a broken finger diagnosed?

The patient's story and the clinical signs help make the correct diagnosis. The primary care physician or physical therapist will then perform a physical exam with several tests. A commonly used test is assessing axial compression pain: the hand is held while the finger is gently pushed toward the hand. With a broken finger, this causes immediate pain.

A broken finger will always be further investigated at the hospital, usually with several X-rays from different angles. These provide more information about the location and type of fracture. A bone scan can also be considered, but only if bone demineralization is suspected as a possible cause.

Treatment of a broken finger

Once the location and fracture type are clear, the best treatment is chosen. In most cases, surgery is not necessary. A period in a cast or splint for six weeks is sufficient for the fracture to heal.

In some cases, such as when bone fragments are displaced, surgery is required. During surgery, the surgeon repositions the bone fragments with metal plates and screws.
After surgery or immobilization, the finger feels stiff. It is important to restore mobility. A physical therapist, especially a hand physical therapist, can help with exercises, taping the finger, or massaging the muscles.