Question: When To Consult Orthopedics For Finger Fracture?

What does an orthopedic doctor do for a broken finger?

The emergency doctor or an orthopedic surgeon will assess the stability of the broken finger. If the fracture is stable, treatment may be as simple as splinting 1 finger to another by taping them together. The splint will be left in place for about 4 weeks followed by an additional 2 weeks with no strenuous exercise.

DO orthopedic doctors treat fingers?

Orthopedic hand surgeons examine and treat sports injuries including wrist injuries, broken bones in and around the hand, sprains, strains, and finger injuries.

When should you go to the doctor for a finger injury?

When to See a Doctor Pain and swelling are severe or persistent. The injury is a puncture or open wound and you haven’t had a tetanus shot in the last 10 years.

DO orthopedic doctors treat broken bones?

Orthopedic surgeons can repair broken bones and injuries to muscles and tendons, among other things and help improve function and reduce or eliminate pain. They can also work in conjunction with other specialists such as therapists, rehabilitation doctors and pain management specialists to optimize treatment.

Is it too late to fix broken finger?

A long delay between the time of the injury and the start of treatment for a broken finger could lead to poor healing, decreased range of motion or decreased grip strength. But, waiting just a few days usually isn’t a problem. For a bone to heal properly, it needs to be fixed in place, so it can’t move.

What happens if you dont fix a broken finger?

This can lead to decreased ability to use your injured finger, such as when you are trying to grasp something. This can also cause a deformity. There can also be a complication with some fractures called “nonunion.” This is when two ends of the bone don’t heal properly. This leaves the fractured area unstable.

What kind of doctor should I see for finger pain?

The types of specialists who treat finger injuries, conditions and disorders include orthopedic specialists, hand surgeons, rheumatologists (arthritis specialists), neurologists (for nerve-related finger problems), and physical therapists.

What is a hand and finger doctor called?

Hand surgeons are orthopaedic, plastic, or general surgeons who have additional training in surgery of the hand. To become members of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, hand surgeons must take a full year of additional training and must pass a rigorous certifying examination.

Should I go to the doctor for a swollen finger?

Because a swollen finger can be a sign of a serious infection or inflammation, you should talk with your medical professional about your symptoms. If you experience finger swelling with pain, redness, or warmth, seek prompt medical care.

What does a fractured finger look like?

Whenever you injure your finger, you may feel pain, swelling or stiffness when trying to move the affected digit. However, there are a few particularly telltale signs that point to a fracture: The fracture site is very swollen. The affected finger appears unnatural or deformed.

How do you treat a torn ligament in your finger?

Rest involves not using your finger. Ice should be applied to the injured site for 15–20 minutes every 1–2 hours using a bag of frozen peas in a moist cloth or towel or by submerging the finger in a cup of ice with a little bit of water. Compression can be applied with a firm elastic bandage around the finger.

How long does a fractured finger take to heal?

A broken finger or thumb usually heals within 2 to 8 weeks, but it can take longer. It may be 3 to 4 months before full strength returns to your hand. Once it’s healed, use your finger or thumb as normal.

What should I wear to an orthopedic appointment?

If you are attending for a knee, hip or spine problem, please wear or bring shorts to your appointment. If you are having shoulder or elbow problems, please wear a singlet or a top that has few buttons.

How long does it take for a fracture to heal?

How Long Does a Fracture Take to Heal? Most fractures heal in 6-8 weeks, but this varies tremendously from bone to bone and in each person based on many of the factors discussed above. Hand and wrist fractures often heal in 4-6 weeks whereas a tibia fracture may take 20 weeks or more.

How do you fix a fracture?

The three main treatment options for bone fractures are:

1. Casting.
2. Open reduction, and internal fixation- this involves a surgery to repair the fracture -frequently, metal rods, screws or plates are used to repair the bone, and remain in place, under the skin, after the surgery.