1. Identify a Finger Sprain
A finger sprain, actually any sprain, is the stretching or tearing of the ligaments in the injured area to the point where damage occurs. Ligaments are bands of tissue that connect bone to each other and help parts of the body move. There are different grades of sprains. Grade 1 means the ligament merely stretches. Grade 2 indicates that the ligament tore partially and Grade 3 means you have completely severed the ligament.
2. When Fingers Get in a Jam
Falling on your hand and bending the finger at a poor angle often causes a finger sprain. Pulling or holding onto a finger too hard (for example, when a child pulls on a finger too roughly) can also cause sprains. Jamming the finger, such as while catching a ball during a sporting event or when you jab a finger into another person, can also cause finger sprains. Athletes who play basketball or volleyball should take extra care not to sprain any fingers.
3. Pain Equals Sprain
Most of the time sprains cause pain, swelling and tenderness, especially when you move the finger. Check in with your care provider for an x-ray to make sure the finger isn't broken. Care providers may employ an MRI to check if the ligament is completely torn. If it's been a while since the sprain, and your finger hasn't healed, you should also check in with your care provider.
4. Keep the Finger Immobilized
Most experts recommend splinting or taping the sprained finger to a healthy finger to keep it from moving during healing. Immobilize the finger for no more than a week, or the muscles and ligaments in your hand may become stiff and weak. Care providers may recommend finger exercises to help the finger heal. You should also keep your finger above the level of your heart until the swelling goes down. Your care provider may recommend that you keep the finger immobilized during sporting events for a few weeks after the injury.
5. Treat the Pain
While immobilizing the finger will help it heal, it won't reduce the pain. Ice the finger to decrease the swelling and pain. You can also take an anti-inflammatory medication, such as Ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) or Acetaminophen (Tylenol). Ask your care provider which is best for you.
