Diagnosis Explanation:

A finger dislocation occurs when a finger bone (phalanx) is forced out of its normal joint position, usually due to trauma, falls, or sports injuries. It commonly affects the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint or the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint.

Symptoms:

• Severe pain, swelling, and deformity of the finger.
• Inability to move the finger or a feeling of looseness.
• Bruising and tenderness around the affected joint.
• Numbness or tingling if nerves are affected.

Specific Work Modifications:

• If your job involves typing or writing: Use voice dictation software and take frequent hand-stretching breaks.
• If your job requires manual labor: Avoid gripping, pulling, or weight-bearing on the injured hand.
• If your job is desk-based: Use an ergonomic keyboard/mouse and keep the hand elevated when possible.
• Avoid: Forceful gripping, repetitive finger use, and tasks that put pressure on the injured finger.

Specific Activity Modifications:

• If you play sports: Avoid ball-handling sports (basketball, volleyball, tennis) and contact sports until fully healed.
• If you play an instrument: Modify technique and use adaptive grips.
• If you do crafting, gardening, or cooking: Use larger-handled tools to reduce strain.
• Avoid: Forceful gripping, repetitive hand motions, and activities that strain the affected finger.

Recommended Supplements:

• Collagen Peptides – 10g daily for ligament and joint repair.
• Vitamin C – 500mg daily to support collagen synthesis.
• Glucosamine & Chondroitin – 1500mg/1200mg daily for joint lubrication and ligament health.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids – 1000mg daily to reduce inflammation.
• Turmeric (Curcumin) – 500-1000mg daily for natural pain relief.

Recommended Nutrition and Hydration:

• Increase Lean Protein (chicken, fish, tofu, eggs) to support ligament healing.
• Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods (berries, leafy greens, turmeric, nuts) to reduce swelling.
• Consume Hydrating Foods (cucumber, watermelon, citrus) to maintain joint lubrication.
• Limit Processed Foods & Sugars to prevent inflammation.
• Hydration: Drink 8-10 cups of water daily to support joint function.

Home Exercise Prescription (Rehabilitation for Finger Dislocation)

Early Phase (0-2 Weeks, Protecting the Joint & Reducing Pain):

• Splinting – Wear a finger splint for 2-4 weeks, as directed by your doctor.
• RICE Protocol – Rest, Ice (15-20 min, 3x/day), Compression, Elevation.
• Gentle Passive Finger Flexion & Extension – Use the opposite hand to gently bend and straighten the finger, 10 reps, 2x/day.

Strengthening Phase (2-6 Weeks, Restoring Mobility & Function):

• Towel Scrunches – Place a towel on a flat surface, use fingers to scrunch it, 10 reps, 2x/day.
• Finger Lifts – Place hand flat, lift each finger individually, 10 reps per finger, 2x/day.
• Rubber Band Finger Extensions – Wrap a rubber band around fingers, open hand against resistance, 10 reps, 2x/day.

Advanced Phase (6+ Weeks, Preventing Recurrence & Maintaining Function):

• Grip Strengthening (Soft Ball Squeeze) – Squeeze a soft ball 5 seconds, repeat 10 reps, 2x/day.
• Finger-to-Thumb Opposition – Touch thumb to each fingertip, 10 reps, 2x/day.
• Wrist Circles – Slowly rotate wrists in both directions, 10 reps, 2x/day.

Helpful Books:

1. The Hand and Wrist Pain Solution: Simple Exercises for Relief – Dr. Ross Clifford.
2. Arthritis and Hand Therapy: A Self-Help Guide to Managing Joint Pain – Susan J. Barnhart, PT.

Contact the Key West orthopedic clinic or reach out to Dr. Jason Pirozzolo.