A jammed finger is a common injury that can occur during sports or regular daily activities. It is typically a sprain to the joint or knuckle of the finger, and there may also be a small fracture or dislocation of the joint. The following are some steps to take to treat a jammed finger:

• Rest: Let your finger rest, if possible.
• Ice: Ice the injured area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day, to reduce swelling. You can use a cold pack or place your finger in ice water.
• Elevate: Keep your hand elevated above chest level to reduce swelling.
• Compression: Wrap the injured finger with an elastic bandage to help reduce swelling and provide support. However, be careful not to wrap it too tightly, as this could stop the blood flow to the injury.
• Buddy tape: Tape the injured finger to an adjacent finger using a self-adhesive wrap to tape above and below the joint. This is also known as "buddy taping".

If your symptoms dont improve within 24 to 48 hours of your injury after using the RICE method at home (rest, ice, compression, elevation), see a healthcare provider. Seek medical care if:

• Your finger appears deformed.
• You cannot straighten your finger.
• The area becomes hot and inflamed, and you develop a fever.
• Swelling and pain become significant or persistent.
• The finger becomes numb and turns white or less pink.

Children require medical care because damage to the growth plate of a finger bone can lead to long-term problems. Treatment for a jammed finger varies based on the severity of your sprain and may include splinting and/or buddy strapping to the neighboring normal finger. Some severe injuries may require surgery.