A finger dislocation occurs when the bones that form a joint are forced out of their normal alignment. This separation most commonly affects the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, the middle knuckle of the finger. The injury often results from a sudden, forceful impact, such as a hyperextension injury from catching a ball or a fall onto an outstretched hand. Prompt identification is important, as improper treatment can lead to lasting stiffness or deformity.
Distinct Visual and Sensory Signs
The most telling sign of a dislocated finger is an obvious deformity at the joint. The finger will appear visibly bent at an unnatural angle or fixed in a crooked position. This misalignment means the joint surfaces are no longer in contact.
Acute, localized pain follows the trauma. Swelling and bruising begin rapidly around the affected area. The joint will feel “locked,” and there will be an inability or extreme difficulty in attempting to move or straighten the finger.
Comparing Dislocation to a Fracture or Sprain
Distinguishing a dislocation from other finger injuries like a sprain or fracture is important because treatment protocols differ. A sprain involves the stretching or tearing of ligaments, but the bones maintain their correct anatomical alignment, meaning there is no complete joint deformity. A sprain causes pain and swelling, but the joint surfaces remain parallel.
A fracture can also cause severe pain and visible deformity, making it harder to differentiate from a dislocation. However, the hallmark of a dislocation is the fixed, unnatural position where the bones are clearly displaced. If visible deformity or severe inability to move the joint is present, the injury should be treated with the same urgency as a suspected dislocation. Only an X-ray can definitively confirm the diagnosis and rule out an associated fracture.
Immediate Actions and Triage
Following a suspected finger dislocation, avoid any attempt to manipulate the finger back into place. Trying to “pop” the joint back, a process called reduction, can cause serious damage to the surrounding nerves, blood vessels, or tendons. This procedure must be performed by a medical professional.
Stabilization and pain management are the immediate focus. Gently immobilize the injured finger by taping it to an adjacent finger, known as “buddy taping,” or by securing it to a rigid object. Applying a wrapped ice pack to the joint can help reduce immediate swelling and pain.
Keep the injured hand elevated above the level of the heart to minimize swelling. All suspected dislocations require immediate medical attention. Medical professionals can perform X-rays to check for associated fractures and then safely perform a controlled reduction of the joint.