You have been treated for a Injury to the ligaments or bone of the middle joint of the finger. You have had a thorough examination and are now considered fit to be discharged. The following instructions will aid your recovery.
What is a Volar Plate Injury?
This is where the ligaments and sometimes the bone of the middle joint of the finger (proximal interphalangeal joint or PIPJ) are injured.
What causes a Volar Plate Injury?
Sports injuries are a common cause of a volar plate injury. This injury is usually sustained by the finger being bent back with force, for example; being hit with a ball or falling onto the finger.
Sometimes the ligaments are overstretched as the finger bends back, this is a sprain.
Sometimes a small piece of bone can also be pulled off the finger where the ligaments attach causing an avulsion fracture.
What is the treatment for a Volar Plate Injury?
The injured finger may be strapped to the next finger, this is called neighbour strapping, or a splint may be put on the finger.
Taking regular painkillers can help with any pain you have. Paracetamol and/or ibuprofen can be purchased over the counter in any Pharmacy without a prescription. Always check manufacturer’s instructions when using over the counter medication.
Application of an ice pack to the area for 10–20 minutes 2–4 hourly will help to relieve any swelling. Ensure ice is placed in a bag and wrapped in a wet towel, to avoid ice burns. Frozen peas can also be used.
Elevation of the affected hand on the opposite shoulder or above the level of the heart will also reduce swelling to the fingers and hand.
Will I need to be seen again?
You will be referred to the Hand Specialist (Plastic Surgeon).
The Hand Specialist (Plastic Surgeon) may need to operate to fix the fracture or it may be stable enough to heal by itself.
If there is no fracture the Hand Specialist will reassess your injury in about a week to see if you still need the splint.
If there is a mild stable injury you may not need any follow up. Although, please be aware that swelling around this joint can persist for up to 8 weeks.
Regular bending of this joint can prevent joint stiffness and problems with function.
Returning to sports
If you have a Volar Plate fracture please talk to the Hand Surgeons about returning to sports.
If the finger is sprained, it is advised to strap the finger for up to 4–6 weeks when you are doing sports or high risk activities, eg, lifting or carrying heavy objects.
If you have any concerns please do not hesitate to see your GP.
Other people who can give medical advice are:
- Your GP
- 111 Service
- Your Local Pharmacist
Share this...
Were you prepared for the visit today?
Did you feel you were prepared for your hospital visit today? Not many people do. The focus of getting there, whether it is in an emergency or for an appointment, can easily end up with you in a muddle.
Am I Prepared?Related Information
The Work Life Balance
A greater demand from the modern day work culture is increasingly having a detrimental impact on our mental wellbeing. Facing this ever increasing pressure is a…
Read More
Loss of a loved one
Coping with the loss of a loved one is one of the most difficult tests of our mental wellbeing many of us can go through. Whether…
Read More
Exercise in the home
Everyone should aim to achieve 150 minutes of exercise a week, but for some it may not be so easy. Here are some tips for exercise…
Read More
Pride and Stonewall
June is Pride Month! It’s a perfect time to reflect on the long history of resistance that led up to this month-long celebration of awareness and…
Read More
Introduction Video
Introducing you to MySelfCare and a Quick overview of its features and how it works in the Hospital
Read MoreWas this information useful?
How easy to understand and how useful was the information for you. All feedback is anonymous. If you would like a possible response, please include your email.
How was your visit today?
How well did our staff do today in helping you with your condition. Please note All feedback is anonymous. If you would like a possible response, please include your email.
Treatment Feedback - Tools for Hospitals
Coming soon – order physical products, and new categories, review your documents and much more.
You must have a valid NHS Email to use this service.
Find Out More
News & Blog
View All
Part 2 – Delivering Information
This video explores the diverse range of patient information delivery products offered by MySelfCare, providing comprehensive guidance on how to utilise them effectively.
Read More
Part 1 – Scanning QRs
This video provides step-by-step instructions on how to use QR codes with MySelfCare, making it easy for you to utilise this powerful feature
Read More
Introduction Video
Introducing you to MySelfCare and a Quick overview of its features and how it works in the Hospital
Read More
Burnout at work
Over the past few decades, “burnout” has become an all-too-familiar way of speaking about a growing problem. Although originating with psychologist Herbert Freudenberger’s 1974 theory, it…
Read More