How Long Does Swollen Painful Finger Post Injury Take To Resolve?

Posted on Wed, 10 Jun 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 10 Jun 2015 Answered on

Fri, 26 Jun 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello,

Yesterday i took a fall on my right hand. The middle finger is a little swollen and it hurts when i move it at the joint. It's also hard like a contracted muscle. Shoul i go see a doctor or it's not the case.
I applied nurofen gel - ibubrofen 3 times.

Thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (20 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
xrays is required

Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome.
Such injuries are usually self limiting and you should rest, apply cold compresses and take nonsteroid painkillers for several days. However, if there is significant swelling or increasing pain then you should go to hospital and do xrays to rule out fracture. In this case you would need immobilization for 1-2 weeks.

Wish you good health.Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E