My finger is bending toward my palm: what’s going on?

There are a few reasons why a finger would bend toward the palm and stay in that position. The causes of this type of occurrence range from the thickening of tissue in the hand to injury or inflammation of a tendon or tendons in the hand or fingers. Any time a finger gets stuck in a bent position, it’s important to consult with a hand specialist to optimize the chances of the best outcome.

Hand and Finger Injuries

If after sustaining a traumatic injury to the hand or fingers, a finger or fingers are ‘stuck’ in a bent position, it’s imperative to seek treatment right away. The cause of the ‘stuck’ finger can range from broken bones, torn ligaments, severe inflammation or tissue damage. All of these can be caused by fingers being ‘jammed’ by a fall or blunt force, like a ball or other object hitting the hand during sports. Crushing injuries, which happen both around the home and in workplaces, can also cause the type of damage to finger and hand structures that can result in a finger or fingers being stuck in a bent position. Seeking the help of a hand specialist who can properly diagnose the injury with examination, imaging and testing, as well as deliver specialized treatment, can be the difference between sub-optimal and optimal healing.

Hand Conditions Causing Bent Fingers

There are a number of hand conditions that can cause fingers to get stuck in bent positions. One of the most common is Dupuytren’s Contracture. This is a condition that most often affects the ring and little fingers. The tissue under the skin tightens and thickens, creating a cord that pulls the finger into a bent position. Trigger Finger is another condition that can result in a finger remaining stuck in a bent position; however, the cause of the bend is different from Dupuyren’s Contracture. Trigger Finger is caused by inflammation in the finger’s tendon. One classic symptom of trigger finger is the snapping action felt when moving the finger from bent to straight.

What you need to know

Whether caused by trauma or by a condition, the time between onset of symptoms and seeking treatment should be as short as possible. Additionally, the hand should be examined by a specialist in treatment and surgery of the hand, wrist and fingers. A hand specialist will have the expertise in the structure of the hand, as well as specialized training in how to treat hand conditions. Hand specialists also stay up to date on the latest advancements in pharmaceuticals, surgical procedures and treatments for the conditions that affect this specific area of the body. This enables them to deliver the most cutting-edge therapies and optimize the chances of an optimal outcome.

The hand specialists at Midwest Hand Surgery are focused on caring for hands, wrists and fingers, as the hands play such a vital role in a person’s ability to care for themselves, have fun, and work. Our team stays up to date with the latest treatment options. Our facilities in Elmhurst, Palos Heights and Lockport offer convenient access to our doctors for those in the Chicagoland area. Click here to schedule an appointment.

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