When Does An Injured Finger Need To Be Seen By The Doctor?

Hello Rescue Fans!

I received an email from someone who fell while rollerblading and injured their hand.  They didn’t want to go to the doctor if they didn’t have to, but were concerned that they may have a fracture or a more serious injury and didn’t want to make a bad decision.Though I’m no “Orthopod“(slang word for the day meaning orthopedist) but there are a few tell-tale signs that I look for to determine if a trip to the doctor is warranted.  Let’s face it, almost all injuries bruise and swell, but it’s in finding a couple of other things like crepitus or deformity that we realize this may be more serious.  Keep in mind, even a bruise or swelling could be reason enough for trip to the doc.  Though needless trips to the ER are never fun, losing the important function of fingers or toes is even worse.  For those of you who can relate, I hope this helps!