In many cases, the finger injuries and pain you experience while climbing are treatable as long as you seek prompt attention and do not put further stress on them until you have healed. If you experience any tendon or finger pain during or after climbing, see a medical professional for a diagnosis. Younger climbers should be especially mindful of this advice, as untreated injuries to their growing skeletal systems can cause debilitating joint arthritis later in life.
While your fingers have adequate strength to keep you steady and hold you in place, they are not designed for repeated lifting of your own body weight. Your fingers, hands and forearms are composed more of tendons and ligaments than muscle. Because of this, your weight is better supported by your legs while you steady yourself with your hands. While using your hands, your fingers may become bent or stressed in unnatural directions under your weight. Without adequate support from the muscular system, your tendons and ligaments may also experience damage from strain.
Pulley Injuries
Pulleys are the spots where the flexor tendons are tethered to the bones in your fingers. Injuries to these pulleys are classified in three grades, depending on severity. Grade I pulley injuries involve sprains, and are characterized by local pain at the point of the injury as well as pain when squeezing or climbing with the affected finger. Grade II injuries involve partial ruptures of pulley tendons. In addition to the pain associated with Grade I injuries, pain is also possible while the finger is fully extended. Grade III injuries result in bowstringing of the tendon due to complete rupture, and a popping or cracking sound may be audible when the injury is sustained. Swelling and bruising follow soon after. Local pain at the pulley is sharp and constant.
Stress Fractures
A stress fracture is characterized by prolonged swelling and pain around the middle knuckle. A stress fracture that goes untreated or continues to endure stress can cause permanent problems, so have an X-ray taken of your finger if these symptoms exist. If you have a stress fracture, avoid climbing for up to three months while the injury heals.
Tendinitis
Your fingers and hands may experience pain and inflammation due to overuse, resulting in tendinitis. Symptoms of tendinitis include pain and swelling on the anterior surface of the affected fingers, or the back of the hand. Untreated and subjected to further stress, this condition may radiate into the palm and along the flexors. In addition to causing pain, tendinitis can also limit your range of motion. Nodules may result from long-term tendinitis, which can permanently hinder your ability to climb.
