Finger Dislocation Treatment

Medically Reviewed by Tyler Wheeler, MD on August 23, 2021
1 min read

Symptoms of a dislocated finger include: pain, swelling, looking bent or deformed, not being able to move the finger.

1. Control Swelling

  • Remove any rings immediately.
  • Apply ice to the area.
  • Keep the finger elevated above the heart.
  • If the finger is bent or deformed, don’t try to straighten it. It may be broken.

2. Get Help

  • See a doctor as soon as you can, ideally within a day. You’ll need X-rays and procedures to realign the finger.

3. Follow Up

  • Keep any protective splint or cast clean and dry.
  • Ice the finger for 20 minutes every few hours for a few days, if you are able.
  • Continue elevating your finger when possible.
  • Take pain medication as prescribed by the doctor.
  • Depending on the nature of the injury, surgery or follow-up with an orthopedist who specializes in hands may be needed.