What are the consequences of a torn capsule on the finger?
A rupture of the capsule is a painful injury, which usually heals without consequences. Even without treatment, the injury usually heals without complications or restrictions in the movement of the finger. Accompanying injuries of the tendons or finger bones, on the other hand, can lead to pain and restricted movement even in the long term.
If small bone fragments remain undetected, the entire finger can remain painful, unstable and stiff. In the long term, a capsule tear in the finger increases the risk of finger arthrosis of the joint. Even courses without complications can become noticeable after decades through cartilage wear and premature wear.
Even small unnoticed remnants of injury in the finger joint can destroy the cartilage over the years and cause arthrosis. The consequences are the affected finger.
- Pain in the affected finger
- Movement restrictions
- Thickening and stiffening
Torn capsule on thumb
The thumb of all fingers is in an exposed position and is therefore more frequently affected by capsule tears and other injuries. The risk of capsule rupture is particularly high during sports where the thumb is naturally spread by the other fingers. This is possible in ball sports such as basketball and volleyball or even skiing.
The typical “ski thumb” is an injury to the capsule apparatus caused by getting caught in the loop of the ski pole. Since the thumb fulfills the most important functions of the hand, an exact diagnosis of possible ligament and bone injuries should be made. In rare cases, surgery becomes unavoidable in the case of such concomitant injuries.
Immobilization and follow-up treatment of the thumb must also be carried out consistently and under medical supervision. Splinting and immobilization of the thumb greatly limits everyday work and all professional activities. A correspondingly long sick leave is often necessary.
If the thumb is severely hyperextended, there is a risk of tearing the flexor tendons. In these cases, there is a probability that a slight restriction of movement will remain even after the treatment. For this reason, a doctor must be consulted at an early stage if the thumb is injured.Would you like to receive more detailed information about the capsule tear on the thumb?
