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How Do I Treat a Bruised Finger?

Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari

A bruised finger is usually the result of an impact or trauma on the finger; bleeding occurs beneath the skin, and swelling and pain are likely to follow the impact. In most cases, this is not a serious injury, but a bruised finger may be an indicator of a much more serious problem, such as a bone fracture or muscle tear. If pain and swelling lasts more than 5-10 days, it is advisable to seek medical attention. If the finger loses mobility for more than 5-10 days, it is also advisable to seek a doctor's advice.

When the injury occurs, it is a good idea to apply the RICE treatment: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Icing the injury will help prevent some swelling and will numb the pain; compression and elevation will help promote blood flow to the injury, thereby promoting faster healing for the bruised finger. Resting the injured finger for several days may be necessary to help prevent further injuries and to promote healing; if the finger needs to be immobilized, you can tape that finger to one of your other fingers for added stability, but remember that this can cut down mobility in two fingers, not just one.

Swollen fingers may be a side effect of certain medications.
Swollen fingers may be a side effect of certain medications.

Some symptoms can linger for a few weeks, such as discoloration or stiffness. This is generally considered normal, but if the pain from the injured finger worsens or persists beyond two weeks, the finger may have sustained a fracture, tendon tear, or muscle tear. Minor occurrences of these injuries will generally heal on their own, but serious injuries will require medical attention. If the pain is intense, see a doctor immediately to determine the best course of action. Severe fractures, in which the finger bone cracks, may require surgical attention. Dislocations, in which a bone pops out of its socket, may also require medical attention, so be sure to see a doctor immediately if such an injury occurs.

A badly bruised finger may be set in a splint to prevent movement while it heals.
A badly bruised finger may be set in a splint to prevent movement while it heals.

If a bruised finger occurs but no impact caused it, or no other cause seems to be apparent, you should consult a doctor immediately, as this may be an indicator of a much more serious problem. Some diseases and disorders can lead to finger bruising, and if you are currently taking any medications, you may need to consult your doctor to figure out if those medications may be leading to the swelling. If so, you may need to change your medications.

Discussion Comments

anon1002828

My finger is super purple and blue from playing basketball.

JackWhack

I can't imagine anyone not seeking medical attention if they have a dislocated finger bone! I would be worried that my finger would be permanently warped if I didn't get it pushed back into place by a professional.

DylanB

Having a bruised finger is the worse, especially if it is on the hand you use most! I bruised my index finger on my right hand once, and it hurt every time I tried to do anything.

I wound up making a little splint out of a popsicle stick and some gauze. This made the injury look more serious than it was, but I didn't care, because it kept me from bumping my bruised finger into things and suffering.

wavy58

@orangey03 – Well, you don't put extreme pressure on it. That would do more damage than good. Compression gloves that are made for people with arthritis are helpful, because they just apply a gentle, steady pressure to prevent swelling.

If I bruise my finger, I always apply ice first. This will prevent the initial swelling from getting out of hand.

After I have iced the area, I put a compression glove on. After about half an hour, it starts to feel better.

orangey03

It sounds like putting pressure on a bruised finger would be painful. I know that compression is a recommended treatment, but how badly does it hurt? Does your finger start to feel better soon after you apply the pressure, or does it take a long time?

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    • Swollen fingers may be a side effect of certain medications.
      By: Nenov Brothers
      Swollen fingers may be a side effect of certain medications.
    • A badly bruised finger may be set in a splint to prevent movement while it heals.
      By: Rob Byron
      A badly bruised finger may be set in a splint to prevent movement while it heals.
    • An ice pack, which can help with a bruised finger.
      By: Marc Dietrich
      An ice pack, which can help with a bruised finger.
    • A bruised finger is usually the result of an impact or trauma.
      By: roblan
      A bruised finger is usually the result of an impact or trauma.
    • A doctor should be consulted if a bruised finger is accompanied by intense pain or a joint dislocation.
      By: Shakzu
      A doctor should be consulted if a bruised finger is accompanied by intense pain or a joint dislocation.