Swelling post surgery

[katopasna]

Hi,

I recently broke my ring finger on my right hand. It was in perfect alignment but thanks to a crap orthopedic doc and his PA..it became misaligned in two weeks.  I was then referred to a hand specialist for surgery.  I ended up with 4 pins in it for 2 weeks. He took the pins out because I had no longer had pain and the xrays looked good.

I go back in 2 day for more xrays and to get my PT started.  My finger is completely frozen and bent in the position of the cast.  It is also swollen.  How long does the swelling last??  I understand I am on a long road of PT.  

Thanks

[katopasna]

I was more concerned about the swelling. How long does that usually last? My pins came out 1 week ago.

Thanks

[KaleemMohdBPT]

hi...katopasna..
Few things that can be given to you for improving the movement of your finger and reducing stiffness are

a)  Mobilization with heating modalities (paraffin wax bath) - in this procedure, a liquid like wax is heated to an extent that it can be a bearable temperature, and then the stiff finger is dipped for a few seconds. After few such dips, passive mobilization or assisted mobilization is done by a physiotherapist.

b)  Same as hot water fomentation in which finger is dipped in luke warm water, and then passive mobilization is conducted.

For the problem you mentioned that your finger is pointing towards the pinky finger, there are some options like putting a brace to maintain the normal position. After a while, this brace can be removed.

Again, my advise is that you see a local physiotherapist to discuss your situation, and don't try any of the above suggestions on your own.