Advances in Mental Health

If you jam your finger, you may experience severe pain, swelling, bruising, and even deformity of the digit. A jammed finger refers to when your fingertip is smashed or jammed down toward, or into your hand. A jammed finger can lead to joint compression and permanent deformity, decreased range of motion, and persistent pain if not treated quickly. Because of this, you will need to seek urgent care services as soon as possible. Here are some things you can expect from your urgent care visit if you jam your finger.

X-rays And Ultrasound

After a finger jam, you will not know if you have broken a bone, so the urgent care services provider will need to take x-rays of your finger. While traditional x-rays will be taken, the urgent care doctor may also recommend an ultrasound to assess your finger for ligament damage. If your x-ray reveals a fracture or break in your bone, or if the doctor suspects that you have a torn ligament, they may refer you to an orthopedic specialist or even a hand surgeon.

If no structural injuries or broken bones are present, the urgent care physician may recommend icing your finger and taking anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen. You can also take acetaminophen, however, it will not treat the swelling that is typically associated with a finger jam. Unlike ibuprofen, acetaminophen is not classified as an anti-inflammatory drug, and therefore, will do very little when it comes to bringing down the swelling. 

Splinting, Antibiotics, And Booster Shot

Immobilizing the injured finger with a splint will help keep it from excessive movement so that further damage does not occur. Keeping the finger splinted and immobilized will also help promote healing. Do not attempt to splint your finger at home before you go to the urgent care center. Improper splinting may cause increased pain and even circulation problems.

If your jammed finger was also accompanied by a deep laceration, the cut will be flushed with sterile water and cleaned. To prevent infection, the healthcare provider may also apply an antibiotic ointment to the laceration, and may even prescribe oral antibiotics. In addition, the urgent care provider may ask you if you are current with your tetanus vaccination. If not, they may recommend a booster shot. 

If you sustain a jammed finger, seek urgent care services. Once the extent of your injury has been assessed by the physician, they will then recommend an individualized treatment plan to reduce your pain and promote optimal healing. 

Contact an urgent care center like 75th St Injury & Illness Center to learn more.