Suggest Treatment For Swollen Tender Index Finger

Posted on Sat, 13 Sep 2014

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

Sat, 13 Sep 2014 Answered on

Fri, 10 Oct 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I fell on Aug 17 index finger swollen went to dr 3 weeks ago said it was sprained. Did get it exrayed. but still tender to touch and swollen at times tingles. Can make a fist. Could it be broken? Do I need to get a MRI?

Answered by Dr. Mukesh Chugh (24 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
May send the x-ray picture if possible

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for posting
I have gone through your query and understand your concern. The small joints of hand are very sensitive to injury and even a minor trauma (without fracture) takes 4-6 week time to heal.
My suggestions are -hot water fomentation, gentle exercises for finger, Ibuprofen and trypsin/chymotrypsin to reduce pain and swelling. Physiotherapy also helps in early recovery.
As you are able to make a fist and x-ray is normal, it does not looks to be fractured. Hence, you do not require MRI.
Hope this helps.
Take care

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar