A jammed finger or toe is also called the mallet finger or toe and is caused when the finger or toes hit against something or when it is hit at with something with force. A very common sports injury, jammed fingers are frequent outcomes of contact sports such as football or basketball where one could land on the floor or ground with a sudden thud on his or her fingers or when the ball hits straight on at the fingers. Whatever be the reason, jammed fingers is extremely painful and requires medical help immediately.

First Aid for Jammed Finger
Common symptoms of a jammed finger are a drooping finger, redness, swelling and pain. It is recommended to keep the fingers immobile with the help of a splint. X-rays and sometimes surgery may seem crucial for treating a jammed finger.

• Ice helps reduce swelling and muscle-tissue damage. Apply for 15-20 minutes in every hour for a day or two
• Apply heat to the jammed finger after the first or second day
• For 48 hours, the affected finger or toe should be kept above the heart level
• Wear the finger or toe splint till advised by the doctor
• Try moving the finger once the swelling and pain subsides
• The doctor may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for pain reduction

You would need to see a physician if the pain and swelling persists. Mild jammed finger or toe injuries heal completely but in case of a dislocation or fracture it can take as long as 4 to 8 weeks to heal.

• Previous Entry: First Aid for Joint Dislocation
• Next Entry: A Night without Leg Cramps