Finger, Hand, And Wrist Injuries: Check Your Symptoms

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When to See a Doctor

Are you unable to move your fingers, hand, or wrist normally?

See significance of inability to move normally if you need information to help you answer the questions below.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Are you unable to move an injured finger, hand, or wrist?

Yes

After having a brace, cast, or splint applied, are you unable to move your fingers or hand normally (not because the splint is in the way)?

Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Are you unable to make a complete fist?

Yes

Are you unable to straighten all your fingers?

Yes

Are you unable to bend or straighten your wrist?

Yes

Are you unable to grasp an object?

Yes

Is a young child unwilling or unable to use a finger, hand, or wrist, or protecting a hand carefully?

You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Are you unable to move your hand or wrist normally, or do you have decreased strength after 48 hours of home treatment?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.

Last updated:	November 13, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer