What is when is it too late to fix a broken finger?

It's generally best to seek medical attention for a broken finger as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more difficult it can be to properly set the bone and ensure proper healing.

Here's a general guideline:

• Within 7-10 days: Seeking treatment within this timeframe is ideal for most finger fractures. This allows a healthcare professional to realign the bones relatively easily and apply appropriate immobilization like a splint or cast.

• Beyond 2-3 weeks: Waiting longer than a couple of weeks can lead to the fracture beginning to heal in a misaligned position, called a <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/malunion">malunion</a>. This can cause long-term problems such as pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, and arthritis. In such cases, more invasive treatments, such as surgery, may be required to re-break and reset the bone.

• Chronic Malunion: If a broken finger has been significantly misaligned for months or even years, correcting it can be extremely challenging. While surgery might still be an option, the results may be less predictable, and the recovery period could be prolonged. The primary goals of treatment at this stage are often focused on pain management and improving function as much as possible. <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/bone%20remodeling">Bone remodeling</a> is less effective after certain amount of time.

Important Considerations:

• Open Fractures: If the bone is protruding through the skin (an open fracture), seek immediate medical attention. These injuries are at high risk of infection and require prompt treatment.
• Severity of the Fracture: The complexity of the fracture (e.g., comminuted fracture) can also affect the urgency of treatment.
• Individual Factors: Age, overall health, and activity level can all play a role in healing time and the potential for complications.

It's always best to consult a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Self-treating a broken finger can lead to long-term complications.