What is finger fracture?

Breaks in the bones of the finger usually heal well in about 3 to 4 weeks. The pain and swelling from a broken finger can last for weeks. But it should steadily improve, starting a few days after you break it.

It is very important that you wear and take care of the cast or splint exactly as your doctor tells you to so that your finger heals properly and does not end up crooked. Wearing a splint may interfere with your normal activities. Ask for help with daily tasks if you need it.

You heal best when you take good care of yourself. Eat a variety of healthy foods, and don't smoke.

• If the doctor put a splint on the finger, make sure your child wears the splint exactly as directed. Do not remove it until the doctor says that you can.
• Keep your child's hand raised above the level of the heart as much as you can. This will help reduce swelling.
• Put ice or a cold pack on the finger for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the next 3 days (when your child is awake) or until the swelling goes down. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your child's skin. Keep the splint dry.
• Be safe with medicines. Give pain medicines exactly as directed.
  • If the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it as prescribed.
  • If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask the doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.