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Contents
  • Understanding Mallet Finger
  • Spotting the Symptoms
  • Causes and Diagnosis

What Exactly is Mallet Finger and How Can It Be Treated?

What Exactly is Mallet Finger and How Can It Be Treated?

The Big Picture

Mallet finger is a common injury that happens when the end of a finger is forcefully bent, often during sports. This article explores what mallet finger is and how it can be managed effectively.
Contents
  • Understanding Mallet Finger
  • Spotting the Symptoms
  • Causes and Diagnosis

Understanding Mallet Finger

Mallet finger occurs when the tendon that helps straighten the tip of your finger is damaged. This often happens in sports like basketball or baseball when a ball hits the fingertip. Without treatment, the finger may end up in a drooped position, unable to straighten by itself.

Spotting the Symptoms

If you have a mallet finger, you'll likely notice pain and swelling at the end of your finger. The most telling sign is that you can't straighten the tip of your finger on its own. Sometimes, there may also be bruising or a small fracture at the fingertip.
Mallet finger is an injury that occurs when the tendon responsible for straightening the fingertip is damaged, often due to direct impact in sports.

Causes and Diagnosis

Mallet finger is usually caused by a sudden impact that bends the fingertip, damaging the tendon or causing a small bone fracture. Doctors often use X-rays to confirm the diagnosis and check for fractures.

FAQs

What causes mallet finger?

Mallet finger is caused by a sudden force bending the fingertip, damaging the tendon.

What are the symptoms of mallet finger?

Symptoms include pain, swelling, and inability to straighten the fingertip.

Can mallet finger heal on its own?

Without proper treatment, it may not heal correctly and could remain bent.

How is mallet finger diagnosed?

Doctors use X-rays to check for fractures and confirm tendon damage.

Key Takeaways

If you suspect a mallet finger, seek treatment to prevent long-term issues.
Talk with Doctronic about your symptoms and get advice on mallet finger care.
Additional References
  1. Bendre AA, Hartigan BJ, Kalainov DM. Mallet finger. J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2005; 13:336.
  2. McCue FC 3rd, Meister K. Common sports hand injuries. Sports Med 1993; 15:281.
  3. Lee SJ, Montgomery K. Athletic hand injuries. Orthop Clin North Am 2002; 33:547.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.