What happens if you leave mallet finger untreated?
Mallet finger leads to an imbalance in the distribution of the extensor force between the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) and DIP joints. If left untreated, mallet finger leads to a swan neck deformity from PIP joint hyper extension and DIP joint flexion.
Can mallet finger heal on its own?
If you have a mallet finger, it needs to be treated; it will not heal on its own. You should consult with your doctor, and possibly a hand surgeon.
How do you get mallet finger?
In a mallet injury, when an object hits the tip of the finger or thumb, the force of the blow tears the extensor tendon. Occasionally, a minor force such as tucking in a bed sheet will cause a mallet finger.
What splint is best for mallet finger?
There are many splints on the market, but I have found the best way is an aluminum splint to keep the tip joint straight. Specifically, the tip of the finger should be kept straight but to allow free PIP and MP motions.
Can arthritis cause mallet finger?
Mallet finger is a flexion deformity of the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) caused by a disruption of the extensor mechanism. The deformity can b e caused by active trauma, minor trauma or other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.
How long do you wear a splint for mallet finger?
If your tendon is only stretched, not torn, it should heal in 4 to 6 weeks if you wear a splint all the time. If your tendon is torn or pulled off the bone, it should heal in 6 to 8 weeks of wearing a splint all the time. After that, you will need to wear your splint for another 3 to 4 weeks, at night only.
Is mallet finger a fracture?
Mallet Finger Overview With mallet finger, the tendon on the back of the finger (not the palm side) is separated from the muscles it connects. Three types of injuries commonly occur: The tendon is damaged, but no fractures (bone cracks or breaks) are present.
Which splint is best for mallet finger?
Should you wear a finger splint to bed?
Always wear the splint full time when you sleep. When we sleep, all of us naturally curl up our fingers without realizing it. In fact, after the initial 6-week healing period, you will need to sleep in the splint for another 2 months.
What is the best treatment for mallet finger?
Wearing a splint on your finger to keep it straight is the most common treatment for mallet finger. You may need to wear a splint for different lengths of time. If your tendon is only stretched, not torn, it should heal in 4 to 6 weeks if you wear a splint all the time.
Can I take my finger splint off to sleep?
Again, you must still sleep in your splint. If your occupation requires heavy bending and lifting with your fingers, you should continue to wear the tip protector at work. At week 5, you may consider sleeping out of the splint every other night.
What is the treatment for mallet finger?
Can you bend a mallet finger?
A mallet finger, sometimes called “baseball finger” or drop finger, is caused by an injury to the tendon at the tip of the finger that causes the finger to remain bent and only be straightened with assistance. It’s frequently caused by jamming your finger.