Finger Fractures

Finger fractures are more than just a painful inconvenience—they can seriously impact hand function if not treated properly. From difficulty gripping to long-term stiffness, an untreated or misaligned fracture can affect everyday activities. At Austin Sports Medicine, serving Central and South Austin, Bee Cave, Cedar Park, and Pflugerville, Texas, the expert orthopedic team provides fast, effective care for all types of finger fractures. If you’ve injured your hand or finger, don’t wait—call the office or schedule an appointment online today to begin the healing process.

What are the signs of a finger fracture?

Finger fractures can happen suddenly, and the signs are often immediate. Common symptoms include:

• Sharp pain at the time of injury
• Swelling, bruising, or tenderness around the finger
• Difficulty moving the finger or making a fist
• A crooked or deformed appearance
• Numbness or tingling if nerves are affected
• Pain when pressure is applied or the finger is moved
  

If you suspect a fracture—especially after trauma—it’s important to get evaluated as soon as possible. Delaying care can lead to improper healing, joint stiffness, and loss of full function.

What can cause finger fractures?

Finger fractures typically occur due to direct impact or force to the hand. Frequent causes include:

• Falls: Landing on an outstretched hand or catching a fall with your hands
• Sports injuries: Contact sports, ball-handling, or collisions
• Workplace accidents: Machinery, tools, or heavy lifting injuries
• Crushing incidents: Slamming a door or dropping something heavy
• Twisting or bending: Sudden force in an unnatural direction

While anyone can suffer a finger fracture, active individuals, athletes, and people in labor-intensive jobs are at greater risk due to frequent hand use and exposure to high-impact situations.

How are finger fractures diagnosed and treated?

Evaluation and imaging

The provider will start with a physical exam and ask about how the injury occurred. Swelling, bruising, and finger alignment will be assessed. Imaging tests are typically used to confirm the diagnosis:

• X-rays: The most common method to identify fractures and their severity
• CT scan: Used in more complex or joint-involved fractures

Treatment options

Treatment depends on the type, location, and severity of the fracture:

• Buddy taping or splinting: For minor, stable fractures that don’t require realignment
• Closed reduction: The bone is manually realigned before immobilization
• Surgical repair: For displaced, open, or unstable fractures, pins, screws, or plates may be used to stabilize the bone
  

Rehabilitation through hand therapy may be recommended to restore strength and flexibility once healing begins.

At Austin Sports Medicine, every patient receives a personalized plan focused on pain relief, proper alignment, and a full return to hand function. If you've injured your finger, contact the team today to get the expert care you need.