I am an avid rock climber. i have a bruised and swollen middle joint on my middle finger. what are the possible connective tissue injuries/treatments?

Rest: Rock climbing puts a lot of stress on the small tendons and joints in the hand. We really weren't designed to hang by our finger tips. The swelling and bruising is a sign of overuse or strain. I would recommend that you rest the hands until they feel better. This could take a few weeks! if the pain returns as soon as you start climbing again, see a hand surgeon.