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Broken finger or thumb

Overview

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Symptoms of a broken finger or thumb include pain, swelling, bruising and and loss of movement. It may also change colour or feel numb.

If you think you’ve broken your finger or thumb, avoid moving it, keep your hand raised and apply an ice pack regularly until you get medical help.

Treatment for a broken finger or thumb usually involves wearing a splint, taking painkillers and rest. More serious breaks may need surgery.

A broken finger or thumb usually takes 6 to 8 weeks to heal, but can take longer. Take painkillers and use ice packs to ease the pain as it heals.

Get medical advice as soon as possible if you think you’ve broken a finger or thumb. It may need treatment to heal properly.

Page last reviewed: 23/03/2022
Next review due: 23/03/2025