Hand & Finger Injuries

Hand and finger fractures are common in the NFL due to frequent contact and falls. Players have dealt with hand fractures, often playing through them. Fractures typically involve splinting or surgery, depending on severity, but players can often return to action relatively quickly with protective gear and rehabilitation.

Dislocations occur when the bones in a joint are forced out of alignment, a frequent injury in the NFL. Star players have suffered from finger or hand dislocations. Treatment typically involves relocating the joint and immobilizing it. Recovery can vary, but NFL players often return quickly using braces or taping.

Ligament tears in the fingers, such as UCL tears (ulnar collateral ligament), are painful and can severely limit grip strength. NFL players have sustained such injuries, which may require surgery, especially for complete tears. Post-surgery rehabilitation is critical, and players often use protective splints to continue playing while recovering.

Mallet finger, a common tendon injury, occurs when the tendon that straightens the finger is torn. NFL players have dealt with this injury, typically caused by catching or jamming the finger. Treatment involves splinting the finger in an extended position for several weeks, but surgery may be needed if the injury is severe.

A jammed finger, or sprain, happens when the ligaments are overstretched due to impact. NFL players frequently experience this injury during games when making catches or blocking. While painful, most finger sprains heal quickly with rest, ice, and immobilization, allowing players to continue playing with minimal interruption using protective taping.