What To Know
- Mallet finger is a common injury that occurs when the extensor tendon in the finger is damaged.
- You may have difficulty straightening the finger, and you may notice a bump on the back of the finger.
- Mallet finger is a common injury that occurs when the extensor tendon in the finger is damaged.
Mallet finger is a common injury that occurs when the extensor tendon in the finger is damaged. This can happen when you hit your fingertip against a hard surface, or when you bend your finger back too far. Mallet finger can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty straightening the finger.
Symptoms of Mallet Finger
The most common symptom of mallet finger is a drooping fingertip. The fingertip may also be painful, swollen, and stiff. You may have difficulty straightening the finger, and you may notice a bump on the back of the finger.
Causes of Mallet Finger
Mallet finger is most commonly caused by a direct blow to the fingertip. This can happen when you hit your finger against a hard surface, such as a table or a wall. Mallet finger can also be caused by bending the finger back too far, such as when you try to catch a ball.
Diagnosis of Mallet Finger
Your doctor can diagnose mallet finger by examining your finger and asking about your symptoms. Your doctor may also order an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for Mallet Finger
The treatment for mallet finger depends on the severity of the injury. If the injury is minor, your doctor may recommend splinting the finger for several weeks. If the injury is more severe, your doctor may recommend surgery to repair the tendon.
Recovery from Mallet Finger
The recovery time for mallet finger varies depending on the severity of the injury. If the injury is minor, you may be able to return to your normal activities within a few weeks. If the injury is more severe, you may need to wear a splint for several months.
Complications of Mallet Finger
In some cases, mallet finger can lead to complications, such as:
- Stiffness in the finger
- Difficulty straightening the finger
- Pain
- Numbness or tingling in the finger
Prevention of Mallet Finger
There are a few things you can do to prevent mallet finger, such as:
- Wear gloves when you are doing activities that could put you at risk for injury
- Avoid hitting your fingertip against hard surfaces
- Do not bend your fingers back too far
When to See a Doctor
You should see a doctor if you have any of the symptoms of mallet finger. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is mallet finger?
Mallet finger is a common injury that occurs when the extensor tendon in the finger is damaged. This can happen when you hit your fingertip against a hard surface, or when you bend your finger back too far.
2. What are the symptoms of mallet finger?
The most common symptom of mallet finger is a drooping fingertip. The fingertip may also be painful, swollen, and stiff. You may have difficulty straightening the finger, and you may notice a bump on the back of the finger.
3. What causes mallet finger?
Mallet finger is most commonly caused by a direct blow to the fingertip. This can happen when you hit your finger against a hard surface, such as a table or a wall. Mallet finger can also be caused by bending the finger back too far, such as when you try to catch a ball.
4. How is mallet finger diagnosed?
Your doctor can diagnose mallet finger by examining your finger and asking about your symptoms. Your doctor may also order an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis.
5. How is mallet finger treated?
The treatment for mallet finger depends on the severity of the injury. If the injury is minor, your doctor may recommend splinting the finger for several weeks. If the injury is more severe, your doctor may recommend surgery to repair the tendon.
6. What is the recovery time for mallet finger?
The recovery time for mallet finger varies depending on the severity of the injury. If the injury is minor, you may be able to return to your normal activities within a few weeks. If the injury is more severe, you may need to wear a splint for several months.
7. What are the complications of mallet finger?
In some cases, mallet finger can lead to complications, such as:
- Stiffness in the finger
- Difficulty straightening the finger
- Pain
- Numbness or tingling in the finger
8. How can I prevent mallet finger?
There are a few things you can do to prevent mallet finger, such as:
- Wear gloves when you are doing activities that could put you at risk for injury
- Avoid hitting your fingertip against hard surfaces
