Mallet finger: can you ignore it or risk serious consequences?
What To Know
- Mallet finger is a common injury that occurs when the tendon that straightens the tip of the finger is torn.
- This can happen from a sudden impact to the fingertip, such as from hitting a baseball or getting your finger caught in a door.
- The best way to treat mallet finger is to immobilize the fingertip in a splint or cast and to rest the finger.
Mallet finger is a common injury that occurs when the tendon that straightens the tip of the finger is torn. This can happen from a sudden impact to the fingertip, such as from hitting a baseball or getting your finger caught in a door. Mallet finger can also be caused by overuse, such as from playing the guitar or knitting.
Symptoms of Mallet Finger
The most common symptom of mallet finger is a bent fingertip. The tip of the finger may also be swollen, bruised, and painful. You may have difficulty straightening the fingertip, and it may be difficult to grip objects.
Treatment for Mallet Finger
The treatment for mallet finger depends on the severity of the injury. In most cases, mallet finger can be treated with conservative measures, such as:
- Immobilization: The fingertip will be immobilized in a splint or cast to keep it straight.
- Rest: Avoid activities that put stress on the fingertip.
- Ice: Apply ice to the fingertip to reduce swelling.
- Elevation: Keep the fingertip elevated above the heart to reduce swelling.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the torn tendon. Surgery is usually only necessary if the conservative measures do not improve the symptoms.
Can I Leave Mallet Finger Untreated?
In most cases, it is not advisable to leave mallet finger untreated. If the injury is not treated, the fingertip may remain bent, which can make it difficult to use the finger. In some cases, the untreated injury can lead to arthritis.
Complications of Mallet Finger
If mallet finger is not treated properly, it can lead to several complications, including:
- Permanent bending of the fingertip
- Difficulty using the finger
- Arthritis
- Pain
When to See a Doctor
If you have mallet finger, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. The doctor will be able to diagnose the injury and recommend the best course of treatment.
Prevention of Mallet Finger
There are several things you can do to prevent mallet finger, including:
- Wear gloves when playing sports or doing activities that could put your fingers at risk.
- Avoid overuse of the fingers.
- Stretch the fingers before and after activities that could put them at risk.
Popular Questions
Q: What is the best way to treat mallet finger?
A: The best way to treat mallet finger is to immobilize the fingertip in a splint or cast and to rest the finger.
Q: How long does it take for mallet finger to heal?
A: Mallet finger typically heals within 6 to 8 weeks.
Q: Can I play sports with mallet finger?
A: You should avoid playing sports that could put your finger at risk of further injury until the finger has healed.
Q: What are the long-term effects of mallet finger?
A: If mallet finger is not treated properly, it can lead to permanent bending of the fingertip, difficulty using the finger, arthritis, and pain.
Q: Can I prevent mallet finger?
A: You can prevent mallet finger by wearing gloves when playing sports or doing activities that could put your fingers at risk, avoiding overuse of the fingers, and stretching the fingers before and after activities that could put them at risk.
