Hyperextended Finger: The most commonly injured joint of the finger is usually the “proximal-interphalangeal” or PIP joint. This is the finger’s middle joint. The most common way to injury that joint is referred to as “hyperextension”. Hyperextension occurs when the joint to straightened too far.

Hyperextension can occur with any joint of the finger and may result in a sprain of the palmar or volar plate. The volar plate is a rather thick ligament that usually prevents hyperextension injuries. But if the force in enough, that joint can be dislocated.

A hyperextension that is simple can result in a small avulsion or chip fracture of the volar plate. X-ray will show this injury. This injury is often treated by immobilizing at 20 degrees to 30 degrees of flexion for two to four weeks. A hyperextension resulting in dislocation can cause such a much larger fragment. The fragment in an x-ray will show if surgical treatment is need to repair the fragment.