Smashed Fingers

Alternate Names : Crushed Fingers

What are the treatments for the injury?

In the case of some types of fractures, a healthcare professional may recommend a splint for broken fingers. In other cases, it may be better to just tape the finger to another finger.

If blood accumulates under the fingernail, the following measures may be helpful.

If the pressure under the bloody fingernail becomes too painful, try taking the following steps. If there are any concerns about doing these steps, seek medical assistance immediately.

1. Clean the finger with some alcohol or wash it with warm, soapy water.

2. Use a pair of pliers to hold a needle or safety pin over an open flame until it is very hot.

3. Touch the very hot needle or safety pin to the injured fingernail.

4. Push the end of the needle or safety pin into the fingernail, creating a small hole. Push the needle or safety pin into the nail until blood comes out. This will relieve the pressure. Oozing and bleeding from this hole may last 2 to 3 days.

5. Soak the finger in warm, soapy water for 20 minutes, 4 times a day until the oozing stops.

6. Repeat the procedure if the hole closes up and the pressure comes back.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Pain medications may cause stomach upset or allergic reactions. If the hot needle or safety pin is pushed too far, it can go into the nail bed. This causes a lot of pain but no permanent damage. Although the risk is small, the hot needle or safety pin may cause an infection.

What happens after treatment for the injury?

After treatment, the fingernail usually comes off. This can happen quickly or it may take a few weeks. If the fingernail starts to loosen, protect it so that it does not catch on anything. The pain may persist for awhile after treatment. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.