How to Help a Jammed Finger

Athletes frequently jam their fingers. A jammed finger is one that has been sprained at the knuckle. Symptoms of a jammed finger include swelling (especially at the knuckle), numbness, pain and a reduced range of motion. A jammed finger is a relatively minor injury, but it should be treated to ensure a full recovery and to prevent further injury.

Things You'll Need

• Ice
• Finger splint

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Instructions

• 1

  Rest the injured hand. A damaged finger is vulnerable to an even more serious injury if you continue your physical activity.

• 2

  Place a bag of ice or a cold wrap on the injured finger. Apply cold for 15 minutes per hour during the first two days.

• 3

  Put the injured finger in a splint or otherwise compress the finger. This will reduce swelling and decrease recovery time.

• 4

  Elevate the injured finger above chest-level as much as possible until you start to see the swelling go down.