DIP Dorsal Finger dislocation (no fracture)

On this page

• What has happened?
• What should I expect?
• What should I do?
• What should I not do?
• Will I be followed up?
• What if I have concerns/questions?

What has happened?

• You have dislocated one of your fingers
• This is a relatively common injury where the bone temporarily moves out of place, and usually requires no further treatment

What should I expect?

• The injury will have been put back into place by ED staff and put into a splint
• The finger will be painful and swollen, and you may develop bruising on your finger - this is normal

What should I do?

• Take regular pain relief (e.g. paracetamol and ibuprofen) as needed
• Your finger will be in a splint for approximately two weeks

What should I not do?

• Avoid heavy lifting with your affected hand while injured
• Leave your finger splint on at all times - take it off for washing only

Will I be followed up?

• Yes, a follow-up appointment in the Orthopaedic Clinic will be requested when you leave ED and you will be contacted regarding a date and time

What if I have concerns/questions?

If your injury is not settling after 6 weeks or you have other concerns, you should see your GP in the first instance - take your ACC form/number with you