A jammed finger is sprain or injury caused while playing sports. Depending on the severity of the collision, which will stress the ligaments at your PIP. The altering degrees of this injury will range from a simple jam to a more serious finger break or dislocation.
It is a widespread injury for sports players. A pointed hit to the straight finger on the tip is the main cause of such injury.
Symptoms for Jammed Finger
The most common symptoms include;
- Pain.
- Bulge of the knuckles.
- Inactivity of the finger.
Depending on the severity of the hit finger may also appear as larger compared to the normal finger.
How to Treat Jammed Finger?
Mostly the minor cases of injuries can be treated at home. But it takes some time to cure. These types of injuries can heal quickly, if there is no facture. If your finger has been fractured, the pain will be more & unbearable. Hence I recommend you to get X-ray to cure your fractured finger. Here are 5 best home remedies to treat your jammed finger.
1 Ice Therapy
As you feel your finger is jammed, as soon as possible apply the ice to it. Applying the ice on the infected area will reduce the body’s inflammatory response and helps ease pain relief and swelling.
- Wrap a few ice cubes in a thin towel.
- Apply this pack to the injured finger for 5-10 minutes.
- Permit the finger to return to normal temperature, & then reapply an ice pack.
- Repeat the same procedure 2 or 3 times.
- Use ice packs 4 or 5 times throughout the day for the first couple of days.
Note:
For no reason apply ice directly on your skin. Also, people who have vascular disease, diabetes or decreased sensation should talk with their doctor before applying ice.
2 Rest
To get rid of the injured finger, you need to make your finger rest. Continues working also increases inflammation, pain and chances to other type of injuries.
Rest the injured finger as much as possible & avoid any jerky, painful movements. Any kind of strenuous activity will only exacerbate the injury.
You can continue exercising the rest of your body and muscles to prevent deconditioning.
3.Epsom Salt
This salt consist of magnesium and sulphate that works together to reduce the inflammation and pain. You can start using Epsom salt 48 hours after the injury has occurred.
- Combine 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt in 1 cup of hot water.
- Immerse the wounded finger in this warm solution for about 15-20 mins.
- One more recipe is to merge 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt in warm olive oil or coconut oil.
- Use it to massage your finger for 10 mins & then soak it in warm water for another 10 mints.
4 Turmeric
Turmeric also has the capability to reduce the pain and swelling because it contains anti-inflammatory properties.
A compound knows as curcumn in turmeric also helps to improve the blood circulation in your body. Proper blood circulation is mandatory for healing process.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder with 2 teaspoons of melted coconut oil to make a thick paste.
- Apply this paste over the pretentious finger. Cover it with a bandage and leave it for a couple of hours before rinsing it off with lukewarm water.
- Repeat the same process up to 2 or 3 times a day.
- Also, add ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of milk and drink it.
- Make a habit of drinking before going to bed for about a week to assist reduce pain & enjoy proper sleep.
5 Splint the Finger
- A splint will maintain the affected finger straight& prevent movement while it heals.
- The splint should not be too tight, which can slow down blood circulation & lead to deadness or tingling sensations.
- You may need to wear the splint for 1-4 weeks, depending upon the severity of the injury & how quickly the finger heals.
- For a minor jammed finger, you can even tape the affected finger to an adjacent finger & be sure to restrict usage and allow it to rest.
How Long Does It Take To Heal?
Depending on the severity of the hit, it may take 5-8 days to reduce swelling. But even after that if you feel the pain & swelling you should seek medical assistance.