A dislocated finger is a painful injury typically caused by a sudden impact or force applied to the hand. It occurs when the bones of the finger are forced out of their normal alignment at a joint, resulting in a visibly crooked or bent appearance. In addition to the physical deformity, symptoms often include swelling, significant pain, and limited mobility in the affected area. Most finger dislocations occur at the middle joint but can happen at other finger joints as well.¹ Finger dislocations can occur at the proximal interphalangeal (PIP), distal interphalangeal (DIP), or metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints.²
X-rays are commonly used to confirm the diagnosis of a dislocated finger and assess for any associated injuries, such as fractures or ligament damage. Prompt medical attention is essential for proper treatment, which may involve manual realignment of the joint, immobilization, or surgical intervention in severe cases. Early care can reduce the risk of long-term complications, such as chronic stiffness or joint instability.³

X-ray of a hand with dislocated finger — X-ray showing a dislocated finger.

Causes of a Dislocated Finger

Finger dislocations are most prevalent among individuals aged 15 to 19 years and are more commonly observed in African Americans compared to other racial groups. These injuries frequently occur in athletes, particularly those participating in basketball and football.⁴ Dislocating a finger is a painful experience that can be brought on by various triggers, including:

Ligament Laxity:

The ligaments that connect the bones in the finger can become stretched or torn, leading to increased instability and a greater likelihood of dislocation.⁵

Joint Hypermobility:

Joint hypermobility refers to the ability of a joint to move beyond its normal range of motion. While this trait can be advantageous for activities such as dance or gymnastics, it can also increase the risk of joint dislocation. This is because hypermobile joints have increased laxity and instability, making them more prone to sliding out of place or “popping” out of their socket with sudden or excessive movement.

Previous Injuries:

If someone has dislocated a finger in the past, they may be more prone to future dislocations of the same finger.

Abnormal Anatomy:

In some cases, a person may be born with an abnormality in the shape or alignment of their finger bones, which can increase the risk of dislocation.

Repetitive Stress:

Certain activities, such as playing sports or performing manual labor, can put repeated stress on the finger joints and increase the likelihood of dislocation.

Aging:

As individuals age, their bones and ligaments may experience a decrease in density and strength, making them more vulnerable to injury and dislocation. This can be due to various factors, such as hormonal changes, nutrient deficiencies, and decreased physical activity. Additionally, certain medical conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis can further exacerbate the risk of joint dislocation in aging adults.

Neurological Conditions:

Certain neurological disorders, such as cerebral palsy or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, can increase the risk of joint dislocation.⁶

Symptoms of a Dislocated Finger

When a finger becomes dislocated, the first sign is usually a visible deformity or misalignment of the affected finger.
In addition, some other symptoms of a dislocated finger include:

Pain in the affected finger is another common symptom of a dislocated finger.
The pain may be severe, and it may be difficult to move or use the affected finger.
Swelling and bruising around the affected finger are common symptoms of a dislocated finger.
The area may also be tender to the touch.
Numbness or tingling in the affected finger may occur due to nerve damage caused by the dislocation.
If a fracture accompanies the dislocated finger, there may be an additional protrusion or bump on the affected finger, and the pain may be more severe.
Swelling or stiffness in the hand or fingers, especially in the immediate aftermath of the injury.

In some cases, the dislocated finger may become cold or pale due to rupture or blockage of blood vessels.

How is a Dislocated Finger Diagnosed?

It is imperative to seek medical attention for a dislocated finger. Delaying treatment can increase the risk of long-term complications such as chronic pain, decreased mobility, and nerve damage.
The healthcare provider will ask the patient about their symptoms, including any pain, swelling, or deformity in the affected finger. They will also ask about any previous injuries or medical conditions that may be relevant.
The doctor will examine the finger, looking for signs of dislocation, such as visible deformity, tenderness, and limited range of motion. They may also check for signs of nerve or blood vessel damage.
Doctors typically use X-rays to confirm a diagnosis of a dislocated finger and to evaluate any damage to the surrounding bones or joints. They may also order additional imaging studies, such as MRI or CT scans, if they suspect there may be more extensive damage.⁷⁸

Treatment of a Dislocated Finger:

Some common treatments for diagnosed fingers include:

Closed Reduction:

The healthcare provider may manually manipulate the finger bones into their normal position.
This is typically done under local anesthesia and may be accompanied by traction, splints, or other devices to hold the finger in place while it heals.

Immobilization:

The finger may be immobilized in a splint or cast for several weeks to allow the bones and ligaments to heal.
The healthcare provider may also recommend regular exercises or physical therapy to help restore the affected finger’s range of motion and strength.

Pain management of a Dislocated Finger:

To manage pain and inflammation, over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may be recommended. In some cases, prescription pain medication may be necessary.

Open Reduction:

If closed reduction is unsuccessful, the healthcare provider may recommend open reduction.
Which involves making an incision to access the bones and ligaments of the finger and realigning them under direct visualization.

Internal Fixation:

Once the bones are realigned, they may be placed using pins, wires, screws, or plates to allow for proper healing.

Reconstruction of a Dislocated Finger:

In some cases, reconstructive surgery may be necessary to repair or replace damaged ligaments, tendons, or other structures in the finger.

What Precautions can you take to Prevent a Dislocated Finger?

While some dislocated fingers may occur due to accidents or trauma that are difficult to prevent, some precautions can help reduce the risk of a dislocated finger:

Use Proper Safety Equipment:

If you regularly engage in activities or sports that involve impact or contact, you should wear proper safety equipment, such as helmets, gloves, and wrist guards.

Strengthen Your Fingers:

Regularly performing hand and finger exercises can help strengthen the muscles and tendons in your fingers, making them more injury-resistant.

Maintain Proper Grip:

Maintaining a proper grip when lifting or carrying heavy objects is advised to avoid dropping the object and injuring your fingers.

Avoid Putting Excessive Stress on Your Fingers:

Avoid repetitive or forceful movements that put excessive stress on your fingers, as this can increase the risk of injury.

Seek Medical Attention for Any Dislocated Finger Injury:

If you experience a finger injury, seek medical attention promptly to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
Delaying treatment can increase the risk of complications and prolonged healing times.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is a painful and potentially serious injury that can impact an individual’s ability to perform everyday tasks.
However, with prompt and appropriate medical treatment, the chances of a successful recovery are high.
Seeking medical attention as soon as possible after a dislocated finger occurs is crucial. It can help to reduce pain, prevent further injury, and promote healing.
In addition, taking precautions to prevent finger injuries can be beneficial in reducing the risk of dislocated fingers.

Refrences

1
MSD Manuals. Finger Dislocations. Available at: https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/injuries-and-poisoning/dislocations/finger-dislocations.
2
Taqi M, Collins A. Finger Dislocation. [Updated 2022 Nov 20]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551508/
3
Prucz RB, Friedrich JB. Finger joint injuries. Clin Sports Med. 2015 Jan;34(1):99-116.
4
Golan E, Kang KK, Culbertson M, Choueka J. The Epidemiology of Finger Dislocations Presenting for Emergency Care Within the United States. Hand (N Y). 2016 Jun;11(2):192-6.
5
Chahal J, Leiter J, McKee MD, Whelan DB. Generalized ligamentous laxity as a predisposing factor for primary traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2010 Dec;19(8):1238-42. doi: 10.1016/j.jse.2010.02.005. Epub 2010 May 8. PMID: 20452244.
6
Joint dislocations in patients with cerebral palsy: a retrospective study” by D. J. Carter et al. (Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics, 2011)
7
MRI or CT scan if you suspect to prevent more extensive damage from ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
8
Hile D, Hile L. The emergent evaluation and treatment of hand injuries. Emerg Med Clin North Am. 2015 May;33(2):397-408.

Dislocated Finger : Understanding and Treating the Injury

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