broken or cracked finger?

[Mistydays_cb]

Hi--

I hit the outside edge between knuckle and first joint of my pinky finger against a hard object about a month ago. (I tried to vigorously shoo my dog out of the kitchen and whacked my hand on the tile counter)  It was painful but never showed obvious (to me) sign of breakage.  I had inflammation, pain, a small amount of bruising (I don't bruise easily) and it as been tender to the touch ever since.  I never had loss of motion, pushing back on the fingertip never hurt, I can make a fist, etc.  I now have a lump in that same spot, which tingles at times. It doesn't seem to be mobile--doesn't move around under the skin if I try to move it.  It's still tender if bumped.  It's barely visible when I look at both hands and compare pinkies; just looks like a bit of inflammation.   I'm in my 40's and use a computer alot, drive, throw balls for the dog, etc.

Thoughts?  Was it broken or cracked or is something else going on?  A cyst?  

Also, I hit a knuckled on another finger when i hit the tile counter, and that knuckle is still sore as well.  As with the pinky, minimal swelling and bruising.  Is a month normal time frame for healing, or have I possibly damaged the knuckle as well?

I didn't even consider going to the doctor b/c I've definitely lived a life of hard knocks, horseback riding, firefighting, hiking, etc....and didn't consider this to be any sort of significant injury.  A month later, though, and I wonder....

[Mistydays_cb]

Thank you both--

I appreciate the information and the time you took to answer my questions.  Due to a lack of health insurance, I won't be able to explore this further via a physician/orthopedician unless it becomes more of a problem.  You have definitely set my mind a bit at ease, I figured the lump was probably part of the healing process for a crack or break, but I don't have the experience to KNOW that.

Thank you again...

[weezer555]

http://www.*****************/orthopedics/forums/backup/topic-37494.html

Log on to the above site and read about the patients finger injury similar to your own and the Physicians advice as symptomas progress. It may help andswer your questions and provide you with an idea of the next steps to take vs consulting an orthopedic vs hand specialist.
A fracture heals in 4-6 weks and forms a callus around the fracture. Fractures do not require medication after the acute phase has passed. A tendon may have been involved in an injury too close to the knuckle as the attach there.

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

You should get an X-ray done to diagnose any fractures or cracks in your finger bones called phalanges. It can also be due to displaced fractures or due to callous formation also.

You should wear a finger splint, apply ice packs and take pain killers till you get a proper diagnosis.

If conservative treatment fails then your orthopedician will explore surgical options.

Take care!