Fracture of Distal Phalanx

Definition:
A break, especially the breaking of a bone or cartilage in the distal phalanx.
Symptoms:
  • Pain in the finger
  • Swelling in the finger
  • Loss of ROM in the finger
  • Bruising
  • Possible deformity in the finger
Causes:
  • Heavy object falling onto hand
  • Crush injury
Treatment:
  • Period of immobilization
  • Progress to ROM and stretching exercises
  • Hand intrinsic muscle strengthening
  • Upper extremity strengthening