A sprained or jammed finger often occurs during ball sports or other activities with direct blows or hyperextension to the fingers. Radiographs should be obtained to rule out a concomitant avulsion fracture. Fractures greater than 30% of the articular surface often require surgical fixation. The patient should have a detailed ligament evaluation to check for instability. The patient should also have a detailed tendon evaluation so as not to miss a tendon injury like a central slip. If there is a concern for tendon injury or ligamentous instability, the patient should be splinted and have urgent hand surgery referral. Otherwise the patient should be given analgesics and encouraged to perform early mobilization.

 

avulsion fracture

avulsion of the volar carpal plate

boutonnière deformity

buddy taping

central slip injury