Mallet finger injuries are a common but often underestimated problem. This type of injury affects your fingertip's ability to straighten and can be caused by various factors, from sports mishaps to everyday accidents.
At Performance Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine in Toms River, Shrewsbury, and Wall Township, New Jersey, David Dickerson, MD, and Shawn Denning, DNP, help many patients recover from hand conditions, including mallet finger injuries. We’re here to restore full strength and movement with expert treatment and rehabilitation.
In the meantime, we’ll dive into the world of mallet finger injuries, exploring what they are, their causes, and how they can be treated effectively.
Imagine trying to extend your finger, but it stubbornly remains bent at the tip. This condition, often referred to as "baseball finger" or "dropped finger," is a mallet finger injury.
Here's what you need to know about it:
A mallet finger injury occurs when your extensor tendon, which is responsible for straightening your fingertip, is damaged or torn. It often results from a forceful blow to your fingertip, jamming it in a bent position.
Mallet finger injuries can happen in various ways, such as playing sports, slamming a door on your finger, or even while doing household chores. Any activity that puts excessive pressure on your fingertip can potentially lead to this injury.
Now that you understand what a mallet finger injury is, it’s essential to recognize the symptoms. Early diagnosis can significantly impact the effectiveness of treatment.
Here are the key signs to look for:
The most evident symptom is a fingertip that droops or remains bent, unable to straighten on its own.
Your injured finger may be painful and swollen, often accompanied by tenderness around the affected area.
The inability to straighten your fingertip is a hallmark of mallet finger.
In some cases, your nail may become misshapen or show signs of damage.
Once a mallet finger injury is identified, the next crucial step is treatment. Depending on the severity of your injury, there are various approaches to consider. Let's explore treatment options:
For less severe mallet finger injuries, splinting is often the first line of treatment. A splint, usually worn for several weeks, helps keep your fingertip extended while your tendon heals. Compliance is essential, as removing the splint too soon can hinder your recovery process.
In more severe cases, when your tendon is significantly damaged or there’s a fracture involved, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgery aims to repair your damaged tendon or bone and restore your finger's functionality.
Regardless of the chosen treatment method, rehabilitation exercises play a crucial role in regaining strength and mobility in your affected finger. These exercises are typically guided by our team and can be performed at home.
Left untreated, a mallet finger injury can lead to complications, such as joint deformities or chronic pain. Therefore, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent long-term issues.
Understanding mallet finger injuries and the treatment options is essential for anyone who may encounter this common injury. By recognizing the symptoms early and seeking the appropriate treatment, you can ensure a smoother road to recovery and reduce your risk of complications.
If you’re ready to learn more about mallet finger injuries and treatment options, call 731-691-4898 or request an appointment online with the team at Performance Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine today.
