Run with a broken finger?

[Indi57]

I broke my finger on Saturday, the hospital have cut off one ring and I have to go back tomorrow to get the other one cut off if the swelling goes down. It's very swollen and blue. When it's sorted will I be able to run if its taped.I started the speed and was doing great, I don't want to let this put me back. Any thoughts please

[Anniemurph Graduate]

Well, not being a medical bod, I'm not usre if my advice is worth anything, but here's two points to consider:

- will running make your hand swell up if your fingers are taped?

- awful though - what if you trip and fall on it?

You could go for power walking for a few weeks and see if that keeps your fitness up, or try an exercise bike?

I hope it heals quickly.

[Indi57 Graduate in reply to Anniemurph]

Thanks anniemurph, looks like my dog is going to get some really long walks.

[tubontherun]

Having broken my fingers twice, I would suggest making sure you keep it elevated. If you don't, and you're not ready to go unsupported, it will throb and swell. Also, I was on some fairly strong painkillers - so beware that masking any potential running injuries.

I personally wouldn't run until I didn't have to elevate, but if your doctor says it's ok, then see how you feel.

[Indi57 Graduate in reply to tubontherun]

Ouch, bad enough once getting a broken finger, Going to do what what you all have said and not run for a couple of weeks, see how it feels then.

[DeliaItaly Graduate]

I'm no doctor, but did break my wrist while on the program. The answer is no running. Even if you did keep your hand elevated, how on earth could you keep it still?

As Anniemurph suggests, try walking or exercise bike. Good luck!

[Indi57 Graduate in reply to DeliaItaly]

Hi deliaitaly, didn't think about keeping it still if I ran, guess if I walk an hour each day I should keep my fitness up. Thanks guys for your thoughts

[DeliaItaly Graduate in reply to Indi57]

you won't lose your fitness. I've been through the wars since graduating with 2 weeks of no running at one point, but I didn't lose it. I was 6 weeks with my broken wrist and came back to week 3 (I had been on week 6) which was really easy and then went on to graduate. You'll be fine!

[Oldgirl Graduate]

I agree with Delia, I was out of action for 3 months last year due to sciatica, I was crippled with it and could hardly walk. Started back to running in April and graduated again in May. I'm not saying you'll have to do that I'm just saying the fitness isn't lost completely. Once your finger is more comfortable try some walking and speed it up as and when you can that way once you are able to get back to running it will be easier for you. Hope the pain eases soon for you that must be very sore.

[didntrunthat Graduate]

Sorry to hear about your finger, as the others say take it easy. I had 6 months off when I fractured my foot and tore ligaments back on the programme now at week 5, but finding it easy enough apart from the odd niggle with my ligaments so taking it slower. I'm really please with fitness levels, I know after a few runs I could have been back to running 5k's, but I have to be careful of my foot now so building it gradually. I don't imagine you'll have anywhere near as long off or have to be so cautious once you're back at it