When do I need surgery for a ruptured capsule on my finger? | Torn capsule on finger

When do I need surgery for a ruptured capsule on my finger?

Complete healing takes about six weeks. During this time, you should refrain from sports activities and use your finger carefully in everyday life. Of course, the process can take place at different speeds from person to person.

In order to reduce the joint swelling quickly, it is important to keep the finger consistently elevated and cooled. In addition, as soon as the acute phase is over, careful movement is important to avoid permanent stiffening of the joint. If tendons or ligaments are torn in addition to the capsule, healing may be delayed.

At what point can you start working after a ruptured capsule on your finger?

Usually it takes about six weeks until the finger is completely healed and you can go about your work. Of course, this depends on the type of work and how much strain is put on the finger there. If the finger is not put under heavy strain, it is also possible to work again before the six weeks are over.

A reintegration may help to gradually increase the working time and stress. It is important not to put too much strain on the affected finger too early, so as not to provoke a renewed rupture of the capsule. Furthermore, the time depends on the severity of the injury; if bones and/or ligaments are also affected, the healing process may be further delayed.

Sick leave depends on the severity of the injury, the intensity of the treatment, the patient’s sensation and the type of professional activity. Simple capsule injuries that are treated gently and taped often do not require a long sick leave. Physical activities or professions with high writing requirements may have to be suspended for several weeks.

Otherwise, the activity can be resumed as soon as the affected person does not feel any pain while performing the profession. A severe or even surgically treated capsule tear requires about 6 weeks of healing and further weeks of rehabilitation. Physical activities must be interrupted for the entire healing process, otherwise healing may be jeopardized.