The diagnosis of a fracture, at the base of your finger near to the knuckle, has been made at you’re A&E Department / Walk-in Centre visit. You will have been provided with buddy strapping to the fingers and a wrist (Futura) splint. This should been worn for the next 3-4 weeks.
This type of injury normally heals well without any problems. You will experience pain, tenderness and swelling which should gradually settle over a period of 2-3 weeks. Regular paracetamol and ibuprofen or codeine should be taken initially for the first few weeks. You may need to visit you GP should your pain persist. The strapping can be removed once the pain starts to settle.
You would expect your pain levels to be reducing to virtually zero at around 3 weeks from the injury although it can take up to 6 weeks and sometimes longer before your hand returns to normal.
As this fracture in close to the joint you must move your fingers as soon as possible, and try to use your hand as normally as possible. This will not cause problems although heavier lifting can be painful for up to 6-8 weeks.
As the bone heals a lump will form at the break site which you will notice on the back of your hand, and the knuckle will not be as prominent when you make a fist. Hand function and grip strength are usually very good after this type of injury.
Should you have any concerns or problems please contact the Trauma Secretary on 0191 445 2443.
If you have any ongoing concern or require a fitness to work certificate please contact your GP.