Is My Finger Healing Properly?
Approximately a month ago, I had an incident where a heavy concrete slab, weighing around 600 pounds, fell onto my hand. I visited urgent care, where they stitched up my middle finger and prescribed antibiotics for any potential infection. Recently, I noticed that I was regaining almost complete movement in my finger and hand. However, after engaging in typical activities like framing a wall and doing some heavy lifting, I noticed my finger became swollen once more. I'm wondering if this swelling is a usual part of the healing process or if it warrants concern.
Answers (1)
6/23/2025, 5:01:06 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's great to hear that you're regaining movement in your finger after such a serious injury. However, the swelling you're experiencing after activities is not uncommon, but it does require some careful monitoring to ensure your healing remains on track.
Main Points:
- Swelling can be a normal part of the healing process after a significant injury, especially with increased activity.
- However, persistent or worsening swelling could signal a need for further evaluation.
Explanation: After an injury like yours, it's typical for inflammation to occur as part of the body's healing response. When you engage in activities that put strain on your hand, it's not surprising your finger swells, indicating that it might need more time to heal or that it's being overworked. It's crucial to listen to your body during this recovery phase.
Next Steps:
-
Rest: Give your finger time to heal. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities until the swelling subsides. Gradually reintroduce activities while paying attention to how your finger responds.
-
Ice and Elevation: Apply ice to your finger for 15-20 minutes several times a day, especially after any activity to help reduce swelling. Keep your hand elevated to help minimize swelling further.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any signs of infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, or discharge from the wound, as well as any significant pain that does not improve with rest or ice.
-
Gradual Return to Activity: Once your finger feels better, gradually resume normal activities, but take care not to push it too far too quickly.
If swelling persists or worsens over the next few days, or if you notice any concerning symptoms, consider seeking further medical advice. It's essential to prioritize your healing to avoid complications. Remember to be patient with your recovery, and keep me updated on your progress!
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