​Finger dislocations are often dismissed as minor injuries. However, finger joints are among the most complex structures in the body, and a mistreated dislocation can lead to prolonged stiffness, chronic pain, or lasting joint instability. Early, accurate care from a qualified hand therapist makes a significant difference in recovery.
What Are Finger Dislocations?
A finger dislocation occurs when the bones of a finger joint are forced out of their normal alignment. A dislocation can occur in four different directions, and each direction damages different structures, requiring a distinct treatment approach.
What Causes Finger Dislocations?
Finger dislocations typically result from an external force that pulls or bends the finger beyond its normal range of motion. Common causes include:
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Ball sports such as volleyball and basketball, where fingers absorb sudden impact
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Falls onto an outstretched hand that force the finger joints into an extreme position
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Direct contact or jamming of the finger against a person, the ground, or an object
How Are Finger Dislocations Treated?
Effective finger dislocation rehabilitation begins with having the finger repositioned into proper alignment by a medical professional. Treatment then depends on the direction of the dislocation and the structures involved.
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The most common presentation is a dorsal dislocation of the PIP joint (the middle knuckle) caused by the finger bending backward, often resulting in a volar plate injury. Despite being routinely managed with a straight aluminum splint, that approach is incorrect. The joint needs to be held in a slight bend and must remain mobile to avoid stiffness. Custom thermoplastic splinting allows a hand therapist to position the finger precisely at each stage of healing.
When the finger is forced forward or into an exaggerated bent position, the central slip of the extensor mechanism is detached, resulting in a boutonniere injury. This is the inverse of a volar plate injury: the joint must be splinted straight. A lateral dislocation damages the collateral ligament and is typically managed with buddy taping, though splinting may be required depending on severity.
What to Expect During Finger Dislocation Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation typically includes:
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A period of protective splinting with limited use of the finger
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Specific range-of-motion exercises to keep the joint moving within appropriate limits
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Swelling management throughout the healing process
Keeping the joint moving is crucial to avoid chronic stiffness. Other potential complications of mismanaged dislocations include ongoing pain, persistent swelling, and the inability to fully straighten the finger. Early treatment with a skilled hand therapist significantly reduces these risks, though full recovery can take up to six to eight months.
Get Finger Dislocation Rehabilitation at Reach Sports Physiotherapy & Hand Clinic
A finger dislocation that goes untreated or is managed incorrectly can mean months of unnecessary pain and limited hand function. At Reach Sports Physiotherapy & Hand Clinic, our Certified Hand Therapists (CHTs) can properly assess and manage your dislocation from the outset to streamline recovery. Call us today at 587-635-5258 or schedule an appointment online to get started.
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If you're seeking expert hand therapy in and around Edmonton, AB, Reach Sports Physiotherapy and Hand Clinic is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward improving your hand health and function.
