Your finger is likely bent back due to a volar plate injury, commonly referred to as a jammed or sprained finger. This occurs when your finger is hyperextended, meaning it's bent backwards or sideways beyond its normal range of motion.
Understanding Volar Plate Injuries
The middle joint of your finger relies on three ligaments, including the volar plate, for stability and movement. Ligaments are strong tissues that connect bones to each other. When excessive force causes your finger to bend backward, it can damage the volar plate, leading to:
- Pain: Often immediate and intense.
- Swelling: Around the affected joint.
- Stiffness: Difficulty bending or straightening the finger.
- Instability: The joint might feel loose or wobbly.
- Deformity: In severe cases, the finger may appear bent or out of alignment.
Common Causes
Volar plate injuries frequently happen during:
- Sports: Especially those involving catching balls (e.g., basketball, volleyball). The ball can hit the fingertip, forcing it to bend backward.
- Falls: Bracing yourself with your hand can cause finger hyperextension.
- Accidents: Any forceful impact on the finger.
What to Do
If you suspect you have a volar plate injury:
- Rest: Avoid using the injured finger.
- Ice: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
- Compression: Use a bandage to support the finger.
- Elevation: Keep your hand elevated.
Seek Medical Attention: It's important to see a doctor or hand specialist for diagnosis and treatment. They may recommend:
- X-rays: To rule out a fracture.
- Splinting or buddy taping: To immobilize the finger and allow the volar plate to heal.
- Physical therapy: To regain range of motion and strength after the injury heals.
- Surgery: In rare, severe cases, surgery may be needed to repair a torn volar plate.
