Diagnosis
The examination of the finger should be performed by an orthopedic surgeon or trauma surgeon. He will take an anamnesis and a physical examination to make a diagnosis. During this examination, he will examine the finger for possible swelling, bruising, restricted mobility and other injuries.
Above all, he must distinguish the diagnosis of an overstretched finger from other possible capsule and tendon injuries. It is possible that he will perform special functional tests for this purpose. If the physical examination is not sufficient, he may use apparative procedures. These include ultrasound, an MRI or X-ray. With an X-ray, possible bone fractures can be detected or ruled out.
How does an overstretched finger differ from a torn capsule on the finger?
Unlike an overstretched finger, a torn capsule damages the joint capsule of the finger. The joint capsule holds the fluid in the joint. A rupture of this capsule causes severe, stabbing pain and swelling of the finger due to fluid leaking from the capsule.
The difference to overstretching is that a rupture of the capsule often injures small blood vessels, which can lead to additional bleeding into the joint. The rupture of the capsule also leads to instability in the joint, but this is often undetected on the fingers. If it is still unclear whether the joint is overstretched or torn, an X-ray or MRI should be made for further diagnosis.
Treatment of an overstretched finger
If an overstretched finger occurs during an accident or injury, the first important measure is immediate immobilization, elevation and cooling. Cooling, for example with an ice pack, can prevent swelling of the finger. The exercised activity should be interrupted immediately.
If necessary, a pressure bandage can be applied, which also counteracts swelling through strong compression.In the acute treatment of ligament stretching, the PECH rule can be followed: P=Pause, E=Ice, C=Compression, H=High bearing. By applying these acute measures the swelling and thus the pain can be reduced. If the pain is severe, taking painkillers can also be helpful.
Physiotherapy can be used to speed up the recovery process. This can influence the healing process through targeted movements and prevent movement restrictions. Do you have specific pain in your thumb?