Symptoms of a Broken Finger
Symptoms of a Broken Finger often appear immediately after injury and can range from mild to severe, depending on the type and location of the fracture. The most recognisable symptoms of a broken finger include sharp pain, swelling, bruising, deformity, and difficulty moving or bending the finger.
Pain is usually localised and worsens when pressure is applied or when attempting to move the finger. Many patients describe it as sharp, throbbing, or constant. In cases where the fracture involves the joint, any attempt to flex or straighten the finger becomes painful or impossible.
Swelling and bruising typically develop within minutes to hours. The affected finger may appear larger or discoloured compared to the others. In some cases, the swelling can extend to the hand or neighbouring fingers.
Deformity is a major sign of a displaced or angulated fracture. The finger may look bent, twisted, or shortened. If the bones have shifted out of position, the knuckle may disappear, or the finger may lean in an unnatural direction. An open fracture may also show broken bone piercing through the skin — this requires immediate emergency care.
Symptoms of a Broken Finger
Reduced mobility is common. The person may find it difficult or painful to make a fist, grip objects, or type. In some cases, the finger may become completely immobile or locked in a bent position.
Numbness, tingling, or coldness in the fingertip may occur if blood flow or nerve function is affected. These symptoms are warning signs of vascular or nerve involvement and must be addressed quickly to avoid long-term damage.
In children, symptoms may be less obvious. They may avoid using the hand, become irritable, or cry when the hand is touched. Parents should always seek medical advice if a child injures their finger and shows any sign of pain, swelling, or favouring one hand.
Identifying the symptoms of a broken finger early improves the chances of proper healing. Even if symptoms seem minor, persistent pain or swelling after injury should not be ignored.
[Next: Diagnosis of a Broken Finger →]
