A swollen pinky finger is commonly caused by an injury, like a jammed finger (sprained finger) where a ligament is torn or stretched [1, 7, 9]. It can also result from a minor infection [1, 2]. Other potential causes include:
Potential Causes of Pinky Finger Swelling
- Arthritis: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can cause swelling and inflammation in the fingers, particularly affecting the pinky finger [5, 6]. This often involves swelling and inflammation of the tendons bending the fingers, and fingers can even shift towards the pinky finger.
- Gout: Gout, a type of inflammatory arthritis, can also lead to finger swelling [1, 2].
- Benign growths: Non-cancerous growths can cause localized swelling in a single finger [1, 2].
- Ulnar nerve compression: Compression of the ulnar nerve, which runs down the arm to the pinky and ring finger, may lead to numbness, weakness, shooting pain, and swelling [3].
- Trigger finger: This condition involves swelling or thickening of the tendons or their protective sheaths, leading to the finger getting stuck in a bent position, potentially straightening suddenly with a snap [4, 6, 7]. The ring and pinky fingers are frequently affected.
- Boxer's fracture: A fracture of the 5th metacarpal bone (the bone in the pinky finger) can cause swelling, pain, a bent or claw-like appearance, and limited mobility [10].
Understanding the Symptoms
While swelling is a key symptom, it’s important to consider accompanying symptoms. Pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, numbness, and changes in finger alignment can indicate a more serious underlying condition. For example, pain at the base of the affected finger is a symptom of trigger finger [7].
When to Seek Medical Attention
Although swelling in a single finger is usually not a cause for concern [1, 2], persistent swelling, severe pain, or additional symptoms warrant a visit to a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. They can determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
