Least Effective Exercises Slideshow

Medical Author:

Kevin P Collins, MD

Coauthor:

Robert McCormack, MD

Medical Editor:

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

Dr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology.

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Finger Dislocation Prognosis

Most simple dislocations can be put back into their natural position easily. Full function in the injured finger will usually return. Mild or moderate discomfort or disability can continue for 12-18 months. Some permanent swelling or disfigurement of the injured joint may be expected.

Occasionally, a fragment of the dislocated joint or some surrounding tissue can become lodged between the displaced bones. This prevents the bones from going into their natural position. Surgery may be necessary to put the bones into the correct position. Results of this surgery are usually very good, but some function may be lost.