Jammed Fingers - Fairview Health Services

Jammed Fingers, Finger Sprains Common in Sport

If you've ever jammed your finger trying to catch a ball, you know how painful it can be. More than this, jammed fingers and finger sprains can be severe, resulting in torn tendons or fractures. Use these tips from Fairview Sports and Orthopedic Care to treat your injured finger.

1. Assess the situation. Can you move the injured finger fairly well? If you can, the injury is likely mild and you may be able to continue to play. If you can't, discontinue play and see a doctor.

2. Ice the affected area. Submerge the finger in ice water for five to 10 minutes, or apply ice to the joint to reduce pain and swelling. Repeat for the next several hours.

3. Support the joint using athletic tape. Buddy tape the injured finger to its neighbor to keep it still, applying a thin strip of tape above and below the knuckle.

4. Seek medical attention if the finger is deformed or severely swollen, or it is too painful to move it.

Fairview is the official medical provider for the Minnesota State High School League, Minnesota Youth Athletic Services, the National Sports Center and the Minnesota Youth Soccer Association. Fairview's family of orthopedic servies inlcudes Fairview Sports and Orthopedic Care, the Institute for Athletic Medicine, Fairview Hand Centers, Fairview Orthotics and Fairview Prosthetics.