“It will heal itself” is likely something you have heard in regards to a broken toe or a broken finger but that statement is not entirely true. Because broken fingers, in particular, are hard to detect, oftentimes they are left untreated which people assume to be a good thing because the body works to heal itself. However, an untreated bone fracture in the hand can cause your joints to become stiff and be hard to move at times. If you have a broken finger and are wondering about the treatment options, read on to learn more.
Minor Fractures
Minor fractures are often hard to detect from an x-ray alone and will typically require that you undergo multiple x-rays in order to identify where the fracture is and whether or not the bone is in fact fractured. If you are diagnosed with a minor fracture, the doctor will likely recommend that you immobilize your finger by wearing something like a stint or wrap. By inhibiting your finger from moving, you will prevent your finger against any further damage and will help the bone to heal back together over time.
Major Fractures
If you have a major fractured bone on your hand or finger then surgery may be required in order to get it to heal properly. Because the hand is filled with so many tiny tendons and working parts, a broken bone can make everyday things like opening a jar or typing to be painful or impossible to do. During surgery, however, the bone will be placed back in the correct position with the help of pins or screws and the hand will be restored back to its normal functionality. After surgery, your finger will be placed in a cast which will help it to heal more fully.
A broken finger might seem like a tiny injury because the bone is so tiny. However, as one of the most intricate and complex parts of your body, the bones in your hand shouldn’t be neglected. To learn more about treatment options for a broken finger, contact George Philip Smith’s office today!
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