Sprained index finger: Treatment and prevention methods

An index finger sprain is a condition in which the ligaments in this finger are stretched or torn. It causes pain, stiffness and swelling of the index finger. Follow the following article to know how to treat and prevent this condition.

If the index finger is sprained, the patient will often feel very painful, the finger is swollen and tight. Usually, people can self-treat a finger sprain at home for mild sprain symptoms. However, if the sprain persists or becomes severe, the patient should see a doctor for advice on appropriate treatment.

People who have sprained their index finger will feel very painful, the finger is swollen and tight

Methods used to treat index finger sprains

The main goal when treating an index finger sprain is to reduce swelling and pain. At the same time, it is to help the patient return to activity safely as soon as possible. 

Initial treatment consists of four steps: rest, ice, compression, and elevation of the injured hand.

• Let the injured index finger rest and limit movements as much as possible to allow the ligaments to heal themselves.
• Apply cold compresses or ice wrapped in cloth to the injured index finger for 15-20 minutes. Continue to apply four times a day until the pain and swelling are gone.
• Immobilize the hand with a compression bandage or splint to prevent further injury and help reduce swelling and inflammation.
• Elevating your hand on a pillow so that it is higher than your heart can also help reduce swelling.
• Reduce pain and inflammation with some drugs such as ibuprofen, aspirin or paracetamol. 

The patient can also use a splint to immobilize the sprained index finger and the middle finger. The length of the splint will depend on the condition of the injury. Do not splint for too long as this can cause the fingers to stiffen.

Splint your index finger to prevent further damage and help reduce swelling and inflammation

In addition, the patient should not return to activities too soon. Because this can make the injury worse and even lead to permanent damage such as arthritis , paralysis of the index finger, ...

You can improve the condition of your index finger with some exercises such as ball presses and finger stretches. Physical therapy can help stiff joints move better.

For severe cases of index finger sprains, the following medical treatments can be applied:

• Finger wraps increase stability, reduce pain, and prevent further injuries.
• Splint the index finger with a splint or plastic finger bracket for an allowable time, depending on the extent of the injury, to improve symptoms.
• Surgery will be indicated in cases where the index finger ligament is severely torn or completely torn. Surgery aims to restore injury, relieve pain as well as prevent possible risks. 

How long does a sprained index finger take to heal?

Usually a sprained index finger is not serious and can be treated with home remedies. The index finger ligament takes about 2-10 weeks to heal. So, sprain symptoms can last for this period of time and improve gradually.

In some severe sprains, symptoms may recur and the index finger joint is unstable. It can even lead to arthritis or inflammation of the ligaments that attach to the bones. For this condition, the patient needs more time to improve and treat the injury. The recovery time for a sprain depends on the severity and care of the patient.

The index finger ligament takes about 2-10 weeks to heal

Prevention of index finger sprains

Not all causes of index finger sprains are preventable. Especially for sick people who play sports or do jobs that come in contact with fingers often. However, the use of a splint or forefinger compression can prevent sprain injuries.

If the patient has trouble walking or maintaining balance, assistive devices can be used to avoid the risk of falling. Because injuries from a fall hitting the hand or supporting the arm when falling can also lead to sprains.

Compared to the foot, the hand is more flexible and participates in many daily activities. But finger joints are less prone to sprains than joints in the legs. This is partly because the mechanism of injury in the hand is less, and if there is an injury, there is a greater tendency to fracture because the majority of the bones are small. If you accidentally sprain your index finger , you should visit your doctor for a diagnosis as well as instructions on how to use medication and splints carefully. At the same time, avoid strong movements that affect the wound healing process.