Discomfort in My Pinky Fingers
I am a 32-year-old male, weighing 12.5 stone and standing at 6.0 feet tall. I lead an active lifestyle and do not smoke. I began experiencing pain in both of my pinky fingers following my initial boxing training. Initially attributing it to a potential impact injury, I decided to wait a fortnight in hopes that the discomfort would subside. However, during my second training session, while merely performing shadow boxing, the pain resurfaced after just five minutes of wearing the gloves. I’m curious to know what kind of injury this might be and the most effective treatment methods available. My symptoms include moderate discomfort when gripping the gloves and pain when I attempt to bend my pinky fingers forward.
Answers (1)
7/8/2025, 1:10:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
The discomfort in your pinky fingers during boxing may be due to an overuse or strain injury, possibly involving the tendons or ligaments around the joints. This can often happen with new or intensified physical activities, especially in sports requiring a grip. Here's a structured approach to understand and manage your symptoms:
Explanation
When you use boxing gloves, your hand undergoes more stress than usual as you grip and punch. Initial discomfort might stem from minor strains, but persistent pain suggests that the muscles or tendons in your fingers may not be accustomed to the activity. Pain during grip and bending could indicate tendon irritation or a strain.
Next Steps
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Rest: Give your fingers a break from boxing and similar activities for at least 1-2 weeks. This allows any inflammation to subside.
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Ice Therapy: Apply ice packs to your pinky fingers for 15-20 minutes several times a day, especially after activities. Ice helps reduce swelling and pain.
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Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Consider taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, to help manage pain and inflammation, following the recommended dosage on the package.
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Gentle Stretching: After a few days of rest, start gentle finger stretches. Slowly bend your fingers back towards your wrist and stretch them out without forcing them. This can improve flexibility and help recover strength over time.
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Evaluate Equipment: Ensure your boxing gloves fit properly. Gloves that are too tight or too loose can contribute to discomfort. Consider using gloves designed for beginners, which may offer better support.
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Progress Gradually: When you resume training, start with lighter exercises or shadow boxing without gloves before gradually increasing intensity and duration.
If your symptoms don’t improve with these measures after two weeks or worsen, it’s important to seek professional evaluation to rule out more serious injuries, such as ligament tears or fractures. Keeping track of your pain levels and changes will be useful for any further appointments if needed.
Remember, managing your recovery is as important as your training. Best wishes for a smooth recovery!
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