Jump to
How can you care for yourself when you have a finger sprain?
- If your doctor put a splint on your finger, wear the splint as directed. Don't remove it until your doctor says it's okay.
- If your fingers are taped together, make sure that the tape is snug. But it shouldn't be so tight that the fingers get numb or tingle. You can loosen the tape if it's too tight. If you need to retape your fingers, always put padding between the fingers before you put on the new tape.
- Put ice or a cold pack on your finger for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the first 3 days (when you are awake) or until the swelling goes down. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
- Prop up your hand on a pillow when you ice it or anytime you sit or lie down during the next 3 days. Try to keep it above the level of your heart. This will help reduce swelling.
- Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
- If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
- If your doctor recommends exercises, do them as directed.
Finger sprain in children: When to call
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- Your child has new or worse pain.
- Your child's finger is cool or pale or changes color.
- Your child's finger is tingly, weak, or numb.
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- Your child does not get better as expected.
©2011-2025 Healthwise, Incorporated
The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.