What To Know
- Mallet finger, also known as baseball finger, is a common injury that occurs when the tendon that extends the tip of the finger is torn.
- This can happen when the finger is bent backward with force, such as when catching a ball or hitting a keyboard.
- There is no sure way to prevent mallet finger, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of developing this injury, such as wearing gloves when playing sports or doing other activities that could put you at risk for a finger injury, avoiding bending your fingers backward with force, and seeking medical attention promptly if you do injure your finger.
Mallet finger, also known as baseball finger, is a common injury that occurs when the tendon that extends the tip of the finger is torn. This can happen when the finger is bent backward with force, such as when catching a ball or hitting a keyboard.
While mallet finger can be a painful and inconvenient injury, it can often heal on its own with proper care. However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the torn tendon.
Symptoms of Mallet Finger
The most common symptom of mallet finger is a drooping fingertip. This is caused by the inability of the extensor tendon to pull the fingertip up. Other symptoms may include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Numbness or tingling
How to Treat Mallet Finger
The treatment for mallet finger depends on the severity of the injury. In most cases, conservative treatment options, such as splinting and exercises, are sufficient. However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary.
Conservative Treatment
Conservative treatment options for mallet finger include:
- Splinting: A splint is worn to keep the fingertip in a straight position. This allows the tendon to heal.
- Exercises: Once the splint is removed, exercises can be done to help strengthen the extensor tendon.
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help to teach you exercises and stretches to improve range of motion and strength.
Surgery
Surgery may be necessary to repair the torn tendon if conservative treatment options do not work. Surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. During surgery, the torn tendon is repaired and a splint is placed on the finger.
How Long Does Mallet Finger Take to Heal?
The healing time for mallet finger varies depending on the severity of the injury. In most cases, conservative treatment will take 6-8 weeks to heal. If surgery is necessary, the healing time may be longer.
Can Mallet Finger Be Prevented?
There is no sure way to prevent mallet finger, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of developing this injury, such as:
- Wear gloves when playing sports or doing other activities that could put you at risk for a finger injury.
- Avoid bending your fingers backward with force.
- If you do injure your finger, seek medical attention promptly.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Can mallet finger heal on its own?
A: Yes, mallet finger can often heal on its own with proper care. However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary.
Q: How long does it take for mallet finger to heal?
A: The healing time for mallet finger varies depending on the severity of the injury. In most cases, conservative treatment will take 6-8 weeks to heal. If surgery is necessary, the healing time may be longer.
Q: What are the symptoms of mallet finger?
A: The most common symptom of mallet finger is a drooping fingertip. This is caused by the inability of the extensor tendon to pull the fingertip up. Other symptoms may include pain, swelling, bruising, numbness, or tingling.
Q: How is mallet finger treated?
A: The treatment for mallet finger depends on the severity of the injury. In most cases, conservative treatment options, such as splinting and exercises, are sufficient. However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary.
Q: Can mallet finger be prevented?
A: There is no sure way to prevent mallet finger, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of developing this injury, such as wearing gloves when playing sports or doing other activities that could put you at risk for a finger injury, avoiding bending your fingers backward with force, and seeking medical attention promptly if you do injure your finger.
