Broken finger or thumb

Check if you've broken a finger or thumb

If you have broken a finger or thumb it's likely to be:

• painful
• swollen
• bruised
• difficult to move

It may also change colour or feel numb.

It can be hard to tell if a finger is broken, dislocated or badly sprained. You'll probably need an X-ray.

Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

Bring any medicines you take with you.

While you're waiting to see a doctor

If you think you have broken your finger or thumb, there are some things you can do while you're waiting to see a doctor.

You should:

• try not to move your finger or thumb – it may help to tape it to the finger next to it
• lift your hand up to reduce swelling
• apply an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas) wrapped in a tea towel for 15 to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours to reduce swelling – this is not suitable if you have chilblains or Reynaud's
• if there's a cut, cover it with a clean dressing
• take paracetamol to help ease the pain – when you see the doctor they may suggest different or stronger painkillers if you need them
• remove any rings from the affected hand

Treatments for a broken finger or thumb

A doctor or nurse might:

• try to straighten your finger – they'll give you an injection of local anaesthetic to numb the pain
• put your finger in a splint or cast, or strap it to another finger to keep it in position
• give you a tetanus injection or antibiotics if there's a cut, to prevent infection

You may need surgery for complicated breaks – for example, if it's broken in lots of places or the nerves are damaged.

You may be invited back for a follow-up appointment to check how your finger or thumb is healing.

Recovering from a broken finger or thumb

A broken finger or thumb usually heals within 6 to 8 weeks, but it can take longer. It may be 3 to 4 months before full strength returns to your hand.

Once it's healed, use your finger or thumb as normal. Moving it will stop it getting stiff. Your doctor may be able to give you some gentle hand exercises.

Ask your doctor when you can return to contact sports or other activities that put a lot of strain on your fingers.

Things you can do to help your recovery

There are some things you can do to ease pain and speed up healing of a broken finger or thumb.