Introduction
The dynamic sport of volleyball requires strength, agility, and accuracy. Despite being an exciting game, there is a considerable chance of finger injuries. In addition to being frequent, these injuries have the potential to impair performance if improperly treated. Our specialty at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre is the use of cutting-edge, evidence-based physiotherapy approaches to treat sports injuries. This article discusses finger injuries sustained in volleyball and how our comprehensive physiotherapy approach can help ensure complete recovery and prevent further damage.
Common Finger Injuries in Volleyball Players
1. Jammed Finger
When the ball strikes the fingertip directly, it jams the finger. Ligament tension or minor fractures result from it.
2. Finger Sprain
Sprains happen when ligaments are overstretched or torn, commonly when blocking or digging.
3. Mallet Finger
This injury causes the fingertip to droop because it damages the extensor tendon with an abrupt impact.
4. Dislocation
Usually occurring in the proximal interphalangeal joint, joint dislocations may need to be reduced and stabilized very carefully.
5. Fracture
High-velocity impacts can cause fractures, which can affect the surfaces of joints. These need to be managed precisely by a clinician.
6 . Trigger Finger
Trigger finger, in which a finger becomes “stuck” in a bent posture because of inflammation of the tendon sheath, is less common than an acute volleyball injury but can be caused by prolonged violent motions or repetitive clutching.
Mechanism of Injury in Volleyball
In volleyball, finger injuries typically result from:
- High-speed ball contact during setting or blocking.
- Incorrect hand placement when defending or spiking.
- Collision during play with the floor or teammates.
- Microtrauma can result from overuse of repetitive motions.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
- Swelling and bruising around the finger joints.
- Unable to correctly extend or move the finger.
- Noticeable misalignment or malformation.
- pain when holding a ball, grasping, or pinching.
- Loss of function and strength when doing hand tasks.
Diagnosis at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre
At Elite Physiotherapy, we begin with a thorough history and clinical examination. Our assessment includes:
Physical Examination
- Observation for swelling, deformity, and discoloration.
- Palpation to identify tenderness or step-offs.
- Range of Motion (ROM) testing.
Special Tests
We use evidence-based orthopedic assessments such as:
- Ligament stress testing for collateral ligaments.
- Bunnell-Littler Test to differentiate between joint and soft tissue restrictions.
- Valgus and varus stress test to assess ligament integrity.
- Resisted extension and flexion tests for tendon integrity.
- Joint play assessment for evaluating joint stability.
If required, we refer for X-rays or musculoskeletal ultrasound to rule out fractures, avulsions, or tendon injuries.
Physiotherapy Management for Finger Injuries at Elite Physiotherapy
At Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre, we combine clinical expertise with advanced technology for faster, safer recovery. Our goal is to restore mobility, strength, function, and prevent re-injury.
1. Immobilization and Protection
In acute stages, we may use custom-made splints or buddy taping to protect the injured structure. This reduces pain and prevents worsening.
2. Pain and Inflammation Control
- Cryotherapy (cold packs) in early stages.
- Class 4 High-Intensity Laser Therapy to stimulate deep tissue healing.
- Super Inductive System (SIS) for pain modulation and early neuromuscular activation.
3. Manual Therapy
- Joint mobilization to restore joint mechanics and reduce stiffness.
- Soft tissue release for adjacent muscles and fascia to reduce compensatory tension.
- Trigger point therapy for referred pain patterns.
4. Therapeutic Exercises
- Active and passive Range of motion (ROM) exercises to improve mobility.
- Strengthening exercises using resistance bands and therapy putty.
- Grip strengthener: Using a stress ball, rubber ball, or other grip-strengthening tool.
- Exercises using rubber bands: Wrap a rubber band around your thumb and fingers, then spread them apart against resistance.
- Squeezes and grabs with a towel: To strengthen your grasp, squeeze or curl a tiny towel.
- Object picking: To increase accuracy and fine motor control, practice picking up small objects.
- Proprioception training to enhance joint position sense and hand control.
- Functional drills replicating sport-specific movements like catching and setting.
5. High-End Modalities for Enhanced Healing
- CRET Therapy (Capacitive and Resistive Electric Transfer)
- Used for chronic cases or when there is joint stiffness or tendon fibrosis. It enhances microcirculation and accelerates soft tissue regeneration.
- Shockwave Therapy
- Indicated in cases of chronic tendon injuries, calcific changes, or ligament thickening. Promotes collagen production and reduces scar formation.
- Class 4 High-Intensity Laser
- Improves blood circulation, speeds up tissue repair, and reduces inflammation, especially useful in ligament or tendon damage.
- Super Inductive System (SIS)
- Stimulates muscle contractions without pain, improves joint mobility, and facilitates neuromuscular re-education.
Hydrotherapy: Gentle Yet Effective
For sub-acute or chronic cases, hydrotherapy can be an excellent treatment. The warm water provides a buoyancy-assisted environment, allowing for pain-free movement and gradual strengthening.
Functional Return-to-Play Training
- Ball-handling drills.
- Simulated blocking or setting.
- Reaction time improvement exercises.
- Grip endurance routines.
Injury Prevention Tips for Volleyball Players
- Warm up with finger-specific mobility exercises.
- Use protective taping or finger sleeves.
- Practice correct hand techniques in drills.
- Perform regular grip and forearm strengthening.
- Listen to pain and avoid overuse.
Why Choose Elite Physiotherapy?
Located in Delhi and Gurugram, Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre stands out with:
- Expert sports physiotherapists with hands-on experience in treating national-level athletes.
- Advanced physiotherapy technology is rarely available in standard clinics.
- Personalized rehabilitation plans ensure faster and long-term recovery.
- Evidence-based practice aligned with international standards.
Conclusion
Finger injuries in volleyball may appear minor, but improper treatment can lead to long-term dysfunction. At Elite Physiotherapy, we provide the most advanced and athlete-centric rehabilitation solutions, ensuring a complete return to sport without compromising performance. If you’re struggling with a finger injury or want to avoid one, book an appointment today with our expert physiotherapy team and experience world-class care.