Version July 2025
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What is a finger dislocation? —
This is when 1 of the bones in a finger joint is pushed or pulled out of position. The bone can be forced to the front, back, or side of the joint. When this happens, the finger bones don't line up correctly.
A finger dislocation usually happens from a sudden injury. Sometimes, the injury causing the dislocation also causes a broken finger bone. This is called a "finger fracture."
What are the symptoms of a finger dislocation? —
A finger dislocation causes pain and swelling around the joint. People can usually see or feel that their finger bone is out of position. Because it is out of position, people have trouble bending or straightening their finger.
Should I see a doctor or nurse? —
Yes. See your doctor or nurse right away if you hurt your finger and you have symptoms of a finger dislocation.
Is there a test for a finger dislocation? —
Yes. The doctor or nurse will ask about your symptoms, do an exam, and do an X-ray. The X-ray can show if your bone is out of position and if you have a finger fracture.
How is a finger dislocation treated? —
Treatment depends on how severe the dislocation is and if you also have a fracture.
People with a severe dislocation or those who also have a fracture usually need to see a hand surgeon. This is a doctor who specializes in treating hand problems. They will likely need to do surgery to put the bone back into position.
If your dislocation is not severe, the doctor can do a procedure called "reduction" to put your bone back into position. For this procedure:
●You might get a shot to numb your finger.
●The doctor will gently push or pull your finger back into the correct position. Then, they will put a splint on your finger.
●The doctor will do another X-ray to check that your bone is in the correct position. Most people need to wear the splint for days to weeks, depending on which joint was dislocated.
●After your doctor says that you can remove the splint, you will need to do "range of motion" exercises. This helps prevent finger stiffness.
What else should I know?
●Some finger dislocations can only be fixed with surgery. This is not common, but the only way your doctor will know is by trying to do a reduction procedure.
●A dislocated joint has a higher chance of dislocating again.
●Finger joint stiffness or soreness can last for many months after a dislocation.
●If a splint is not used correctly, some dislocations can cause the finger to have an abnormal bend at the knuckle. This is related to a tendon injury and is different from joint stiffness. See a hand surgeon if your finger movement or appearance is not improving after a dislocation.
Patient education: Finger dislocation – Discharge instructions (The Basics)
Patient education: Finger fracture (The Basics)
Patient education: Common finger injuries (The Basics)
Patient education: How to care for a splint (The Basics)
