Ice makes pain in injury worse?

Question

I accidently hurt my finger messing around with my boyfriend, I went to play punch but he put up his knee and all the force was felt in little finger and the knuckle underneath. At first it went numb and kind of tingly and now it's uncomfortable but not really, really painful so I don't know whether I've done anything bad or not. Also it's most comfortable when held bent and it's hard to straighten. I can do it without too much pain but it just feels difficult, like it makes my finger shake trying to.

Does anyone have any idea what I could have done?

Also, when I put ice on the area it makes the pain hurt more, like it makes the entire side of my hand ache all the way to my elbow almost.

What should I do?

Wait until morning and see if it improves?

Thanks.

Colleen A. · Accepted Answer

If it's hard to straighten, you might have injured the tendon. Ice is used to reduce swelling, but at the same time it causes nerves to constrict. That's the reason we get 'ice cream' headaches. If ice is making the injury more painful, use heat. Apply ten minutes on, and ten minutes off. Heat will cause the blood vessels to expand and increase circulation. It makes swelling worse but it can help manage pain. 

If the situation doesn't improve in 24 hours, or if you develop new symptoms like swelling, a bluish tinge to the skin, numbness or increased pain, you'll need to see a doctor.

If you can't afford a doctor, I would treat this injury as a broken bone. Have some one pull the finger straight so it is just slightly longer than your other finger (this will hurt a lot). Then have the person secure the finger to a splint. The finger will have to stay splinted like this for several weeks to ensure that the injury heals properly. A splint for a pinky finger has to go down the entire length of your hand and be bandaged across your palm and wrist.

? · Answer

Guide To Chronic Knee Pain!

volleyballer11 · Answer

Usually when ice doesn't help it means its broken. I broke my pinkie two days ago and I went to the school nurse and she had me ice it for ten minutes and when it didn't help she was pretty sure it was broken. So my advice to you is go to the er and get it checked out. Just to be safe. It may be nothing but if it is something and you dont do anything about it you could cause serious damage. Good luck!!! ;)

ben · Answer

1

Anonymous · Answer

If ice makes it worse, don't use ice,

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Ice makes pain in injury worse?

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