A jammed finger, even a seemingly minor one, can cause lingering pain and swelling for months due to the delicate nature of finger joints. The injury likely involves a sprain, stretching, or partial tearing of the ligaments and capsule surrounding the joint. These small joints are prone to prolonged inflammation, even with less severe injuries.
Understanding Finger Sprains
Finger joints are incredibly intricate. A seemingly insignificant jam can result in microscopic damage that takes considerable time to heal completely. The swelling you experience is a natural part of the body's inflammatory response to the injury, attempting to repair the damaged tissues. This process can be slow, particularly in small joints like those in your fingers.
Why the Prolonged Pain?
- Microtears: Even without a significant visible injury, microscopic tears in the ligaments and joint capsule can occur. These require time and careful healing.
- Inflammation: Persistent inflammation is a significant contributor to prolonged pain. The body's healing response, while necessary, can cause ongoing discomfort.
- Joint Instability: A jammed finger can lead to some degree of joint instability, which can exacerbate pain with movement and daily activities.
What Can Be Done?
While complete resolution may take time, managing the pain and promoting healing is crucial. Simple measures like:
- Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate the pain.
- Ice: Applying ice packs can help reduce inflammation.
- Elevation: Keeping the finger elevated can minimize swelling.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen or naproxen can help manage pain and inflammation.
Important Note: If the pain persists or worsens, consult a doctor or physical therapist. They can assess the injury and recommend appropriate treatment. In some cases, further intervention, such as physiotherapy, might be necessary to restore full function and alleviate the persistent pain.
Reference: It is probably a sprain, a stretching or partial tearing of the ligaments and capsule surrounding the joint. Finger joints are small, and they seem to stay swollen forever after they've been injured. Jammed fingers stay swollen for months, even if they are not very serious, and there is not a lot you can do about it. 14-Jun-1992
