Mallet finger fracture: how to identify and treat the painful fingertip
What To Know
- The extensor tendon is a thick band of tissue that runs along the back of the finger and attaches to the base of the distal phalanx.
- The most common symptom of mallet finger fracture is pain and swelling at the tip of the finger.
- The finger is immobilized in a splint or cast to keep it straight and prevent further damage to the tendon.
Mallet finger fracture, also known as baseball finger, is a common injury that affects the extensor tendon of the finger. It occurs when the tip of the finger is forcibly bent backwards, causing the tendon to rupture. This type of fracture is often seen in athletes, particularly those who play sports that involve gripping or hitting objects, such as baseball, basketball, and volleyball.
Anatomy of the Finger
To understand mallet finger fracture, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the anatomy of the finger. The finger is made up of three bones: the proximal phalanx, the middle phalanx, and the distal phalanx. The extensor tendon is a thick band of tissue that runs along the back of the finger and attaches to the base of the distal phalanx. This tendon is responsible for straightening the finger.
Symptoms of Mallet Finger Fracture
The most common symptom of mallet finger fracture is pain and swelling at the tip of the finger. The finger may also appear bent or crooked, and there may be difficulty straightening it. Other symptoms may include:
- Numbness or tingling in the fingertip
- Decreased range of motion
- Tenderness to touch
- Bruising
Diagnosis of Mallet Finger Fracture
Diagnosis of mallet finger fracture is typically made based on the patient’s symptoms and a physical examination. The doctor may also order an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis. The X-ray will show a small chip fracture at the base of the distal phalanx.
Treatment Options for Mallet Finger Fracture
The treatment for mallet finger fracture depends on the severity of the injury. In most cases, conservative treatment is sufficient. This may include:
- Immobilization: The finger is immobilized in a splint or cast to keep it straight and prevent further damage to the tendon.
- Physical therapy: Once the finger is healed, physical therapy can help to restore range of motion and strength.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the ruptured tendon. This is typically only recommended if conservative treatment has failed or if the fracture is severe.
Recovery from Mallet Finger Fracture
The recovery time for mallet finger fracture varies depending on the severity of the injury. Most people can expect to wear the splint or cast for 6-8 weeks. During this time, it’s important to keep the finger elevated and avoid using it. Once the cast is removed, physical therapy is essential to help regain range of motion and strength.
Complications of Mallet Finger Fracture
Complications of mallet finger fracture are rare, but they can occur. These may include:
- Stiffness: The finger may remain stiff after the injury, making it difficult to move.
- Deformity: The finger may develop a permanent bend or crook.
- Nerve damage: In severe cases, the nerve that supplies the fingertip may be damaged, leading to numbness or tingling.
Prevention of Mallet Finger Fracture
There is no surefire way to prevent mallet finger fracture, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk. These include:
- Wear protective gear: When playing sports, wear gloves or other protective gear to help prevent finger injuries.
- Warm up properly: Before playing sports, warm up your hands and wrists to help prevent muscle strains and tendon injuries.
- Strengthen your fingers: Regular hand and finger exercises can help to strengthen the tendons and muscles that support the fingers.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How long does it take to recover from mallet finger fracture?
A: Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury, but most people can expect to wear the splint or cast for 6-8 weeks.
Q: Can I play sports with a mallet finger fracture?
A: No, it’s important to avoid using the injured finger until it has healed completely. Playing sports with a mallet finger fracture can worsen the injury and delay healing.
Q: What are the long-term consequences of mallet finger fracture?
A: Most people make a full recovery from mallet finger fracture without any long-term consequences. However, in some cases, the finger may remain stiff or deformed.