A finger dislocation occurs when the bones of the finger are forced out of their normal alignment at a joint. The three joints that can be affected are the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint (knuckle), the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint (middle joint), and the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint (joint closest to the fingertip).
Finger dislocations are classified according to the direction of displacement and may be:
- Dorsal – the bone is displaced towards the back of the hand (most common).
- Volar – the bone is displaced towards the palm (less common).
- Lateral – the bone is displaced to either side of the joint.
Because the digital nerves and arteries run along the palm (volar) side of the finger, it is important that all finger dislocations are carefully assessed to identify any associated nerve, blood vessel, tendon, or ligament injuries.
Is this an emergency?
Finger dislocations are not an emergency but require prompt medical assessment and treatment.
Please contact 1300HANDOC for advice and further instructions.
- Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) Joint Dislocations MCP joint dislocations involve the knuckle joint. MCP joint dislocations are usually caused by forceful hyperextension or a high-energy injury.
- Volar MCP Joint dislocations are rare and warrant referral.
- Proximal Interphalangeal (PIP) Joint Dislocations PIP joint dislocations are the most common type of finger dislocation and frequently occur during sporting activities.
- Distal Interphalangeal (DIP) Joint Dislocations DIP joint dislocations affect the joint closest to the fingertip.
- DIP joint dislocations are less common and are often associated with fractures or injuries to the overlying skin.
- Carpometacarpal (CMC) Joint Dislocations CMC joint dislocations occur at the base of the metacarpal bones where they meet the wrist.
- Swelling
- Deformity (joint being out of place)
- Pain
- Difficulty or inability to move finger
- Instability in the finger
- Sports
- Falls
- Objects falling on hand
- High impact injuries
- Crush
- Other accidents
- Hand Examination
- History
- X ray
The treatment of a hand or finger dislocation depends on which joint is injured, whether the joint is stable after being relocated, and whether there are any associated fractures or ligament injuries.
Please contact 1300HANDOC to discuss the treatment recommendations based on the injury.
1300 426 362