Sports-Related Volar Plate Injury - Cause, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Introduction

Engaging in sports provides various physical and mental advantages, encouraging a healthy lifestyle and cultivating teamwork and discipline. Nonetheless, it also entails the potential for injuries, from minor sprains to more severe fractures. One such injury that can occur in athletes is the sports-related volar plate injury, which affects the fingers and can significantly impact an athlete's performance and well-being.

What Is a Volar Plate Injury?

The volar plate is a strong ligament located on the palmar side (palm side) of the finger joints, specifically the Proximal Interphalangeal Joints (PIP). Its primary function is to prevent the finger from hyperextending, keeping the joint stable during gripping motions and protecting it from injuries. In sports, particularly those involving contact, ball handling, or high-velocity movements, the volar plate can be subjected to excessive stress and become injured.

What Are the Causes of Volar Plate Injury?

• Direct Impact: One of the primary causes of volar plate injuries in sports is a direct blow to the fingertip. Injuries may occur when an athlete's hand comes into contact with objects like a ball, racket, or an opponent's equipment. The force of impact can lead to the volar plate getting stretched or torn, resulting in pain and swelling.

• Hyperextension: Hyperextension occurs when the finger joint is forcefully bent backward beyond its normal range of motion. In sports that involve catching or gripping objects, such as basketball, volleyball, or football, there is a risk of hyperextending the fingers during intense plays. This can strain the volar plate and cause injury.

• Repetitive Stress: Athletes in sports requiring repetitive finger movements, like rock climbing or gymnastics, are susceptible to volar plate injuries. Over time, continuous stress on the finger joints can lead to the wearing down of the volar plate or the development of small tears, resulting in pain and limited joint mobility.

• Poor Technique: Incorrect hand positioning and improper gripping techniques can increase the risk of volar plate injuries. When athletes use flawed techniques during ball handling or tackling, they may place excessive stress on the finger joints, leading to potential injuries in the volar plate.

• Lack of Protective Gear: In certain sports, athletes may not use appropriate protective gear, such as gloves or finger splints, leaving their fingers vulnerable to injuries. Protective gear can provide additional support and help absorb some of the impacts, reducing the risk of volar plate injuries.

• Insufficient Warm-up: Failing to warm up properly before engaging in sports activities can contribute to injuries, including volar plate injuries. A thorough warm-up routine helps increase blood flow to the fingers, preparing the joints and ligaments for the demands of the sport.

What Are the Symptoms of Volar Plate Injury?

Symptoms of sports-related volar plate injuries typically include:

• Pain: Pain is one of the most common and noticeable symptoms of a volar plate injury. Athletes may experience pain around the affected finger joint, especially when attempting to move or bend the finger.

• Swelling: Swelling around the injured finger joint is another typical symptom. The area may appear swollen and feel tender to the touch.

• Bruising: In some cases, bruising may occur around the injured area due to damaged blood vessels during the injury.

• Limited Range of Motion: A volar plate injury can restrict the finger's normal range of motion. Athletes may find it difficult to bend or straighten the affected finger fully.

• Instability: The injured finger joint may feel unstable or loose, particularly when attempting to grip or hold objects.

• Stiffness: Stiffness is a common complaint, especially in the initial stages of the injury. The finger may feel stiff and difficult to move comfortably.

What Is the Treatment for Volar Plate Injury?

The treatment of sports-related volar plate injuries depends on the severity of the injury. Here are the main approaches to treating such injuries:

• Rest and Immobilization: In mild cases of volar plate injuries, the first treatment step involves rest and immobilization. The injured finger may be splinted or buddy-taped to an adjacent finger to keep it stable and prevent further strain. Immobilization allows the ligament to heal properly.

• Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to the injured finger can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Ice should be applied for 15 to 20 minutes every few hours during the initial 48 hours following the injury.

• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, may be recommended to manage pain and discomfort.

• Compression: Wrapping the injured finger with a compression bandage can help control swelling and provide additional support to the joint.

• Finger Exercises: A structured finger exercise program may be initiated as the initial pain and swelling subside. These exercises aim to improve finger mobility, strength, and flexibility. A physical therapist or athletic trainer can guide athletes through these exercises.

• Gradual Return to Activity: Once the injured finger has healed sufficiently and regained enough strength and mobility, the athlete can gradually return to sports activities. It's essential to avoid returning too early to prevent re-injury.

In more severe cases, where the volar plate is significantly torn or displaced, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the ligament and restore joint stability.

Rehabilitation plays an important role in the recovery process. Athletes should follow a structured rehabilitation program under the guidance of an athletic trainer. The program typically involves:

• Finger Exercises: Gradual and controlled finger movements to improve flexibility and strength.

• Range of Motion Exercises: Stretching exercises to restore the finger's full range of motion.

• Strengthening Exercises: Specific exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the injured finger.

• Functional Exercises: Sport-specific drills and activities to retrain the finger for the demands of the athlete's sport.

How to Prevent Volar Plate Injury?

While some sports-related injuries are inevitable, athletes can take measures to reduce the risk of volar plate injuries. Simple preventive measures include:

• Using Proper Protective Gear: Wearing gloves or finger splints during high-risk sports activities can provide additional support and protection to the fingers.

• Maintaining Finger Strength and Flexibility: integrate finger exercises into the standard training regimen to enhance finger strength and flexibility, lowering the likelihood of injuries.

• Practicing Safe Techniques: Focus on proper form and technique during sports activities to minimize the risk of awkward finger positions or hyperextension.

Conclusion

Sports-related volar plate injuries can significantly impact an athlete's performance and well-being. Early diagnosis, proper treatment, and adherence to a structured rehabilitation plan are essential for a successful recovery. Preventive measures, such as protective gear, employing correct techniques, and maintaining finger strength, can help reduce the risk of such injuries. By taking these precautions and seeking prompt medical attention, athletes can minimize the impact of volar plate injuries and confidently return to their favorite sports activities. Purchasing a wrist splint is highly recommended by doctors.