Mallet finger breakthrough: is a splint no longer necessary?

Mallet finger is a common injury that occurs when the tendon that extends the finger is damaged. This can happen from a sudden impact, such as hitting a ball with a bat or getting your finger caught in a door.

Symptoms of Mallet Finger

The most common symptom of mallet finger is a bent fingertip. The fingertip may also be painful, swollen, and stiff. In some cases, there may be bruising or bleeding under the nail.

Treatment for Mallet Finger

The traditional treatment for mallet finger is to wear a splint for 6 to 8 weeks. The splint will keep the fingertip in a straight position and allow the tendon to heal.

Can Mallet Finger Heal Without a Splint?

In some cases, mallet finger can heal without a splint. This is most likely to happen if the injury is mild and the fingertip is not severely bent. However, it is important to note that healing without a splint takes longer and there is a greater risk of the fingertip not healing properly.

Factors That Affect Healing Time

The healing time for mallet finger can vary depending on a number of factors, including:

• The severity of the injury
• The age of the patient
• The overall health of the patient

Tips for Healing Mallet Finger Without a Splint

If you are considering healing mallet finger without a splint, there are a few things you can do to help the healing process:

• Keep the fingertip straight. This is the most important thing you can do to help the tendon heal. You can do this by taping the fingertip to the adjacent finger or by using a finger splint.
• Avoid activities that put stress on the fingertip. This includes activities such as typing, playing sports, and lifting heavy objects.
• Apply ice to the fingertip several times a day. This will help to reduce swelling and pain.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. This will help to relieve pain and inflammation.

When to See a Doctor

If your mallet finger is not healing after a few weeks, it is important to see a doctor. The doctor may recommend surgery to repair the tendon.

Takeaways: Healing Mallet Finger Without a Splint

Healing mallet finger without a splint is possible, but it is important to note that it takes longer and there is a greater risk of the fingertip not healing properly. If you are considering healing mallet finger without a splint, it is important to follow the tips above and to see a doctor if your fingertip is not healing after a few weeks.

Information You Need to Know

Can I play sports with mallet finger?

It is best to avoid activities that put stress on the fingertip while your mallet finger is healing. This includes activities such as typing, playing sports, and lifting heavy objects.

How long does it take for mallet finger to heal?

The healing time for mallet finger can vary depending on a number of factors, including the severity of the injury, the age of the patient, and the overall health of the patient. In general, it takes about 6 to 8 weeks for mallet finger to heal with a splint. Healing without a splint may take longer.

What are the risks of not wearing a splint for mallet finger?

The risks of not wearing a splint for mallet finger include:

• The fingertip may not heal properly.
• The tendon may rupture.
• The fingertip may become permanently bent.