Overview

Breaks in the bones of the finger usually heal well in about 3 to 4 weeks. The pain and swelling from a broken finger can last for weeks. But it should steadily improve, starting a few days after you break it.

It is very important that you wear and take care of the cast or splint exactly as your doctor tells you to so that your finger heals properly and does not end up crooked. Wearing a splint may interfere with your normal activities. Ask for help with daily tasks if you need it.

You heal best when you take good care of yourself. Eat a variety of healthy foods, and don't smoke.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• If your doctor put a splint on your finger, wear the splint exactly as directed. Do not remove it until your doctor says that you can.
• If you have a splint that needs to stay dry:
  • Cover the splint with a plastic bag for bathing. Secure the bag with tape or a rubber band to keep it dry.
  • Keep the splint outside of the tub or shower (out of the water) when bathing.
  • If the splint or skin under the splint gets wet and you cannot remove the splint, use a hair dryer to blow cool air inside the splint.
• Keep your hand raised above the level of your heart as much as you can. This will help reduce swelling.
• Put ice or a cold pack on your finger for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the next 3 days (when you are awake) or until the swelling goes down. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin. Keep the splint dry.
• Be safe with medicines. Take pain medicines exactly as directed.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.