Finger Fractures
Finger Fractures: Understanding the Injury and Physiotherapy Management
Finger fractures are among the most common hand injuries, often occurring during sports, falls, or accidents. These fractures can vary in severity, from minor hairline fractures to complete breaks, and can significantly impact your ability to perform daily activities. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, we specialise in the rehabilitation of finger fractures, helping you regain mobility and strength through tailored treatment plans.
Causes of Finger Fractures
Finger fractures can result from a variety of incidents, including:
Trauma: Direct impact to the finger, such as from a fall, sports-related injury, or being caught in a door, is a common cause of fractures. Contact sports like football, basketball, or rugby often lead to such injuries.
Sports Injuries: Activities involving high-speed movements or the potential for collisions can increase the risk of finger fractures. For instance, catching a ball can lead to an unexpected fracture.
Overuse: Repetitive stress on the fingers, particularly in activities that involve gripping or manual work, can sometimes lead to stress fractures.
Underlying Conditions: Conditions such as osteoporosis, which weakens bones, can make individuals more susceptible to fractures, even from minor injuries.
Symptoms of Finger Fractures
The symptoms of a finger fracture can vary depending on the severity of the injury but typically include:
Pain: Sharp pain at the site of the fracture, which may worsen with movement.
Swelling and Bruising: Immediate swelling around the affected finger and possible bruising.
Deformity: The finger may appear crooked or misaligned.
Limited Mobility: Difficulty moving the finger or a reduced range of motion.
Physiotherapy for Finger Fractures
After a diagnosis and initial treatment—whether it be through splinting, casting, or surgical intervention—physiotherapy plays a critical role in recovery. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, our approach is focused on restoring function and preventing long-term complications.
Pain Management: Techniques such as ice therapy and ultrasound may be used initially to manage pain and reduce swelling.
Range of Motion Exercises: Once the fracture starts to heal, we introduce gentle range-of-motion exercises to restore mobility. These exercises are essential for preventing stiffness in the finger joints.
Strengthening Exercises: As healing progresses, strengthening exercises are introduced to improve the muscles surrounding the finger. This helps to rebuild strength and enhance grip.
Scar Management: If surgical intervention is required, physiotherapy will include techniques to manage scar tissue formation, which can affect mobility and comfort.
Functional Training: We provide guidance on returning to daily activities and sports safely, ensuring that movements are performed correctly to avoid re-injury.
Conclusion
Finger fractures can be painful and disruptive, but with appropriate medical treatment and physiotherapy, most individuals can expect a full recovery. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, our dedicated team is here to help you through every stage of your rehabilitation journey. If you suspect a finger fracture or are recovering from one, contact us today to discuss how we can assist you in regaining strength and function.
