Outlook

After reduction, immobilization, and four to six weeks of healing, the prognosis for the bones coming together and healing properly is excellent for a broken finger.

• The most common problem encountered after treatment of fractures in the fingers is joint stiffness. By immobilizing the fingers, the capsule and surrounding tissue form scar tissue around the joint. It becomes a race to heal the bone before the joint becomes too stiff and a decrease in motion occurs.

• Many people may require physical therapy (preferably with a hand therapist) for range of motion exercises. Therefore, stiffness and swelling are of great concern and may be long-term reminders of the injury. It is important to continue therapy because range of motion may continue to improve for up to a year.