A broken or fractured finger can be a problem for a football player, but most players can still play with the injury. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, or AAOS, most fractured fingers do not require surgery and are placed in a splint to heal. Properly taping up, splinting and protecting the injury before games and practices can help you stay on the field and keep your finger from being injured further.
Step 1
Visit your doctor or trainer to determine the course of action and how the finger should be protected during football activities. According to Family Doctor.org, most will have to use a splint initially, unless your doctor says otherwise.
Step 2
Place a finger splint on the injured finger and tape the splint in place with athletic tape. This will basically immobilize the finger and keep it from moving around and creating pain. The finger is also protected from further injury because it has extra support from the splint and tape.
Step 3
Check the splint and tape throughout games and practices to make sure it does not come loose. A loose splint or one that falls off can leave the finger vulnerable to injury.
Step 4
Exercise and rehabilitate the finger everyday or on the schedule advised by your doctor. The AAOS notes that rehab activities are designed to reduce stiffness and swelling, which in turn can get you well more quickly.
Step 5
Protect your finger whenever it is possible, especially during practice. Try not to let balls hit your finger directly and prevent your finger from getting caught in face masks, pads or jerseys. Protecting the finger helps prevent pain and further injury.
Things You'll Need
- Finger splint
- Athletic tape
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