Differential Diagnosis for 4th Finger PIP Pain after Jamming Injury

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Volar Plate Injury: This is the most common injury after a jamming injury to the finger, especially when the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint is involved. The volar plate is a fibrocartilaginous structure that provides stability to the PIP joint, and its injury can lead to pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • PIP Joint Sprain: A sprain of the PIP joint can occur due to the jamming injury, leading to pain, swelling, and instability of the joint.
  • Collateral Ligament Injury: The collateral ligaments provide stability to the PIP joint, and their injury can cause pain, especially with lateral movement of the finger.
  • Flexor Tendon Injury: The flexor tendons are responsible for flexion of the finger, and their injury can cause pain and weakness in flexion, especially after a jamming injury.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Infection (Septic Arthritis): Although less likely, infection of the PIP joint (septic arthritis) is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent long-term damage.
  • Fracture: A fracture of the proximal or middle phalanx can occur after a jamming injury and may not be immediately apparent, especially if it's a non-displaced fracture.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Ganglion Cyst: A ganglion cyst is a benign lump that can occur on the finger, including near the PIP joint, and can cause pain, especially if it compresses nearby structures.
  • Osteochondritis Dissecans: This is a rare condition where a piece of cartilage and bone in the joint becomes damaged, leading to pain and swelling, and can be a cause of chronic pain after a jamming injury.