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Symptom Checker

Finger Injuries in Children

A finger injury can affect the bone, joint, nail or soft tissues of the finger. Pain, swelling, bruising and difficulty moving the finger are common symptoms.

Jammed fingers, falls, sports, door injuries and crushing accidents are common causes. Fractures, sprains, dislocations and nail-bed injuries can occur.

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AAP Guide to Finger Injuries in Children

The AAP guide below explains first aid and which finger injuries need an exam.

AAP Symptom CheckerFinger injury

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Symptom CheckerFinger injury New tab

When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • The finger looks crooked or your child cannot move it normally.
  • The fingertip was crushed or the nail is badly injured.
  • Swelling or pain is severe.
  • Your child has numbness or the fingertip changes color.
  • A ring cannot be removed as swelling increases.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • The injury caused partial amputation, uncontrolled bleeding or loss of circulation.
  • You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on knocks, pain and injuries

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms