What To Know
- This can happen from a direct blow to the fingertip, such as when you hit it with a hammer or when you fall and land on your finger.
- The specific exercises that you do will depend on the severity of your injury and the stage of your rehabilitation.
- The frequency of your exercise sessions will depend on the severity of your injury and the stage of your rehabilitation.
Mallet finger is a common injury that occurs when the tendon that extends the fingertip is injured. This can happen from a direct blow to the fingertip, such as when you hit it with a hammer or when you fall and land on your finger.
Mallet finger can be a painful and debilitating injury, but it can be treated with proper care and rehabilitation. One of the most important aspects of rehabilitation is exercise. Exercise can help to strengthen the tendon and improve range of motion in the finger.
Types of Exercises
There are a variety of exercises that can be used to rehabilitate mallet finger. The specific exercises that you do will depend on the severity of your injury and the stage of your rehabilitation.
Early Stage Exercises
In the early stages of rehabilitation, you will focus on exercises that help to reduce pain and swelling and improve range of motion. These exercises may include:
- Passive range of motion exercises: These exercises involve moving the finger through its range of motion without using any muscles. You can do these exercises by yourself or with the help of a physical therapist.
- Active range of motion exercises: These exercises involve moving the finger through its range of motion using your own muscles. You can start with small movements and gradually increase the range of motion as your finger heals.
- Stretching exercises: Stretching exercises help to improve flexibility in the finger. You can stretch the finger by gently pulling it back towards your wrist.
Advanced Stage Exercises
Once you have regained some range of motion in your finger, you can start to do more advanced exercises to strengthen the tendon. These exercises may include:
- Resisted range of motion exercises: These exercises involve moving the finger through its range of motion against resistance. You can use a weight or resistance band to provide resistance.
- Strengthening exercises: Strengthening exercises help to build strength in the muscles that extend the finger. You can do these exercises using weights or resistance bands.
How Often to Exercise
The frequency of your exercise sessions will depend on the severity of your injury and the stage of your rehabilitation. In general, you should exercise several times a day, for 10-15 minutes each session. As your finger heals, you can gradually increase the frequency and duration of your exercise sessions.
How Long Does It Take to Recover?
The time it takes to recover from mallet finger varies depending on the severity of the injury. In general, it takes 6-8 weeks to regain full range of motion and strength in the finger. However, it may take longer for some people to recover completely.
Tips for Exercising
Here are a few tips for exercising with mallet finger:
- Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your exercises as your finger heals.
- Listen to your body and stop if you feel pain.
- Use proper form when doing exercises.
- Be patient and consistent with your exercise program.
When to See a Doctor
If you have mallet finger, it is important to see a doctor to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. You should also see a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Severe pain
- Swelling that does not go away
- Numbness or tingling in the finger
- Difficulty moving the finger
Next Steps
If you have mallet finger, it is important to start exercising as soon as possible to improve your chances of a full recovery. Follow the tips in this article to get started with your exercise program.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
What is the best way to prevent mallet finger?
The best way to prevent mallet finger is to avoid activities that put you at risk for the injury. This includes avoiding direct blows to the fingertip and using proper technique when playing sports or doing other activities that involve using your hands.
What are the symptoms of mallet finger?
The symptoms of mallet finger include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the fingertip. The fingertip may also appear to be bent or drooped.
How is mallet finger treated?
Mallet finger is typically treated with a splint or cast to immobilize the finger. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the tendon.
