How Should I Address A Crushed Finger that Happened at Work?

A work-related crushed finger can happen to employees in many different employment environments. This type of finger injury can be severe in nature, reducing range of motion and often preventing the employee from completing usual day-to-day activities. When an employee suffers a crushed finger at work, it is paramount to treat the injury quickly. Otherwise, there can be long-term consequences.

What are the Characteristics of a Crushed Finger?

A work-related crushed finger typically results from severe trauma and produces sudden pain as well as other symptoms. When external force crushes a person’s finger, there can be immediate bleeding, bruising and swelling. In many cases, the injured worker will experience weakness and reduced movement in the affected finger.

More specifically, a work-related crushed finger can also lead to:

• Fracture — Severe trauma can fracture one of the bones in the finger, which usually causes serious pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion.
• Dislocation — External force can dislocate a finger from its usual alignment, which can produce numbness, pain, and abnormal appearance.
• Tendon Damage — Severe trauma can damage the tendons that connect muscles to bone, which usually causes pain, tenderness, and reduced mobility.
• Nerve Damage — External force can damage the nerves in the finger, which generally produces tingling, weakness, and a burning sensation.

What are the Treatment Options for a Crushed Finger?

In terms of treatment options, a work-related crushed finger ordinarily necessitates medical treatment from a licensed professional. Without professional medical treatment, a crushed finger can worsen over time and lead to irreparable impairment or even amputation. Consequently, it is vital to have a qualified medical professional treat a crushed finger as soon as possible.

Due to the varied nature of crushed finger injuries, a medical professional may need to do tests before providing treatment and advice. By examining the injured finger directly and conducting an x-ray or occasionally an MRI, a physician can assess the actual extent of injury. After a proper diagnosis, a doctor can recommend a proper treatment plan.

Sometimes, treatment options can include anti-inflammatory medicine, such as ibuprofen or naproxen. These over-the-counter medications can help reduce pain and swelling. But as noted previously, self-treatment and care are not normally sufficient for this type of severe injury.

Do You Need Medical Attention for a Work-Related Crushed Finger?

If you sustained work-related crushed finger, it can be particularly worthwhile to consult with an accomplished hand surgeon. At Midwest Hand Surgery, we specialize in various injuries to the fingers, hands, and wrists, including conditions that occur in the workplace. For serious injuries that require immediate attention, we even provide same-day treatment options and on-site surgical facilities.

At Midwest Hand Surgery, our physicians have fellowship-level training and a hands-on approach to medical care. We do not employ physician assistants; our physicians see patients themselves. If you need medical attention for a work-related crushed finger or a comparable injury, contact us today and get the professional treatment you need to recover and return to full working capacity.

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