Hand Case 16 History/Physical Exam

This is a common injury in athletes, often due to a direct blow or forced hyperextension. Patients commonly report a "jammed" finger. 

On exam there will be pain and deformity of the affected joint with loss of range of motion. 

Be sure to removal all rings as soon as possible to avoid ring entrapment as swelling may occur. Do not wait for radiographic evaluation to do this. See associated case for additional information regarding ring entrapment. Hand Case 7