Causes
Dislocations occur whenever there is an accident like falling from a certain height directly on to the fingers or toe, getting a finger stuck in the door, or a hard surface striking the tips of the finger.
Finger or toe fractures are caused due to trauma, osteoporosis, and overuse. Trauma includes a fall, sports injury, or car accident.
Osteoporosis weakens your bones. It is an acquired condition characterized by reduced bone mass. In addition, osteoporosis leads to bone fragility. Repetitive use of the bone can tear muscles and pull the bones apart causing them to break.
Symptoms
The symptoms of toe and finger dislocations and fractures are somewhat similar:
- Throbbing pain in the fingers or the toe
- Swelling
- Inability to move or bend the fractured or dislocated joint
- Stiffness and deformity
- Bruising
- Difficulty walking
Diagnosis
After a physical examination, the extent of the injury is typically diagnosed through an X-ray. The X-ray tells exactly which part of the bone is affected the most and how severe the injury is.
If an X-ray does not provide enough information, a health professional may order an an MRI to get a clearer picture of the injury.
Treatment
A medical health professional or physical therapist will begin treatment by realigning the dislocated joints of the finger or toe. Afterward, the finger or toe will be placed in a splint to speed up the healing of the dislocated parts. The toe should be placed at an elevated position to reduce swelling.
The medical provider or physical therapist may suggest some exercises to strengthen the fingers or toes during the healing procedure.
If the swelling does not go away, some anti-inflammatory medication like naproxen sodium, or ibuprofen may be used.
Physiotherapy
Physical therapy is suggested in conjunction with medical treatment to aid the healing process. A physical therapist will also educate the patient on which exercises he or she can continue.
In some cases, electrotherapy is used to reduce the pain and inflammation of the dislocated joints of the fingers and toe.
Contact us
In case of urgent medical care assistance, AfterOurs Urgent Care offers immediate telemedicine services, where medical providers are available to offer assistance. Anyone who experiences signs and symptoms requiring urgent medical attention can simply book their appointment with AfterOurs Urgent Care to directly talk to an expert. If your medical issue is not appropriate for telemedicine, we will let you know and refer you to an in-person facility.
When to visit a doctor:
If you suspect you have a finger or toe that is dislocated or fractured, you should see a medical provider in order to avoid possible complications.
Treatment regarding finger or toe dislocations and fractures is available at AfterOurs Urgent Care.