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When we think of sports injuries, we typically think of blows to the head and chest. But did you know that the most common sports injuries are actually to the hand? Even in hands-free sports, like soccer, your fingers can easily be damaged by a stray ball or jab to the hand. If your fingers are swollen or tender after a hit to the hand, you may have one of these common finger injuries:

Knuckle Fracture

Though your knuckle is one of the strongest parts of your body, a good blow to the hand can cause it to break, fracture, or become dislocated.
Symptoms: Difficulty moving your fingers or a “dropped knuckle” (one knuckle that is farther down than your others).
Causes: A quick, sharp blow to the hand, usually from a stick or helmet.
Prevention: Even in non-contact sports, you should consider wearing protective gloves.
Treatment: Without professional treatment, your hand will never heal correctly. If you suspect you have a knuckle fracture, contact a physician immediately.

Finger Sprain

A finger sprain is an injury to the ligaments that hold your finger together.
Symptoms: Swelling in just one finger and stiffness.
Causes: A sudden twisting of the finger.
Treatment: Just like with other hand injuries, you should have a sprain looked at by a professional. But, you can begin to care for it the moment it happens with ice, rest, and compression.

Mallet Finger

A mallet finger occurs when the tendon at the top of the last joint in your finger is torn or broken off.
Symptoms: You can’t straighten your finger, or the tip of your finger is hanging off/ sloping down.
Causes: A mallet finger is usually caused by a ball striking the tip of a player’s finger, or when a player breaks their fall with their hands.

Treatment: To avoid permanent damage and loss of mobility, you should contact a physician immediately if you suspect you have a mallet finger. In most cases, you’ll need to wear a splint for several weeks.

If you suffer from pain or discomfort in your hands, fingers, or wrists, trust the orthopedic experts at OSG to get you on the road to recovery. As southern Connecticut’s largest and most experienced orthopedic practice, we can fix virtually every bone and joint in your body. Call us today at (203) 337-2600 to schedule an appointment with one of our licensed specialists.