WHAT IS IT?
Mallet finger, also known as baseball finger, is caused when the tiny extensor tendon responsible for straightening the end joint of your fingertips is injured due to over bending of these tips.
WHAT CAUSES IT?
Direct hits to the extended fingers during high impact games such as football, volleyball, baseball and basketball commonly result in mallet fingers.
SYMPTOMS
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Redness
- Pain
- Inability to straighten fingertips while still being able to move it using the other hand
TREATMENT
- X-rays, MRI and Ultrasound will show the extent of the injury.
- Apply ice packs immediately after injury.
- Keep fingers elevated above the level of your heart.
- Anti-inflammatory medications.
- Use of splints to keep the finger straight while the tendon heals, sometimes up to six weeks.
If your injury is complex, surgery is recommended. There are many surgery options. Discuss with your doctor to choose the right tone for you.