Definition:

An injury to a ligament of the finger when the joint is carried through a range of motion greater than normal, but without dislocation or fracture; or an injury resulting from tensile force to muscle or tendon of the finger.

Symptoms:

• Pain in the finger
• Stiffness in the finger
• Loss of ROM in the finger
• Swelling
• Bruising

Causes:

• Backward bending of the finger
• Sideways force
• Forceful or awkward punch
• Repetitive strain associated with overuse

Treatment:

• ROM and stretching
• Soft tissue massage
• Hand intrinsic muscle strengthening