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How can you care for your child who has a finger sprain?
- If the doctor put a splint on the finger, have your child wear the splint as directed. Do not remove it until the doctor says it's okay.
- If your child's fingers are taped together, make sure that the tape is snug but not 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 child's fingers, always put padding between the fingers before putting on the new tape.
- Put ice or a cold pack on your child's finger for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the first 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.
- Prop up your child's hand on a pillow to ice it or anytime your child sits or lies down during the next 3 days. Have your child try to keep it above the level of the heart. This will help reduce swelling.
- Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- If the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it to your child as prescribed.
- If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
- If your doctor recommends exercises, help your child do them as directed.
Finger sprain: When to call
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have new or worse pain.
- Your finger is cool or pale or changes color.
- Your finger is tingly, weak, or numb.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You do not get better as expected.
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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.