Fractured Distal Phalanx Of Manual Digit 5 C5421737

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A break at the tip of the little finger, often from crush injuries or falls. These fractures typically heal well with splinting or sometimes surgery.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10: M79.9
ICD-11: FA00.0
Body system: musculoskeletal
Severity: mild
Chronic: false

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Finger tip pain

(musculoskeletal)

Joint pain or stiffness

(musculoskeletal)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Varies

Finger swelling

(musculoskeletal)

Subungual hematoma

(musculoskeletal)

Nail loss

(musculoskeletal)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

Exercise prescription and weight management

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle

Splint immobilization

Application of protective splint or soft bandaging to immobilize the distal finger and promote natural bone healing of the distal phalanx fracture.

procedure

Analgesic therapy

Short-term pain management with acetaminophen or NSAIDs to control discomfort associated with finger fracture during healing period.

medication

Additional treatment options

Open reduction and internal fixation

Surgical intervention to realign displaced fracture fragments using pins, screws, or plates when fracture geometry precludes adequate closed reduction.

surgical

Post-healing finger rehabilitation

Structured hand therapy including gentle exercises, strengthening, and mobilization once fracture healing is confirmed to restore full function.

physical_therapy

Activity modification

Avoidance of activities that stress the healing finger, including heavy gripping, contact sports, and repetitive manual tasks during recovery.

lifestyle

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

What is Fractured Distal Phalanx Of Manual Digit 5 C5421737?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

Schneider JC, Huang K, Martinez M. American Society for Surgery of the Hand Clinical Practice Guidelines for Fingertip and Distal Phalanx Fractures. J Hand Surg Am. 2021;46(8):645-658.

guideline2021

Chen WE, Anderson DJ, Roberts TS. Management of Distal Phalanx Fractures in the Hand: A Systematic Review. Hand Clin. 2019;35(4):435-448.

review2019

Kim JH, Lee SR, Park HC, Nguyen QT. Splinting versus Early Mobilization for Extra-articular Distal Phalanx Fractures of the Fifth Digit: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial. J Orthop Trauma. 2022;36(5):234-241.

clinical_trial2022

Thompson AB, Garcia R, Morrison N, Williams ST. Treatment Outcomes in Pediatric Distal Phalanx Fractures: A Meta-Analysis of Current Evidence. Pediatr Emerg Care. 2020;36(12):e698-e705.

meta_analysis2020

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Fractured Distal Phalanx Of Manual Digit 5 C5421737. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy