How do you fix a mallet fracture?

Most mallet finger injuries are treated with splinting. A splint holds the fingertip straight (in extension) until it heals. There are several types of splints used to treat mallet finger, many of them fabricated by hand therapists.

How long does it take for a mallet finger to heal?

It should take 6 to 8 weeks for your finger to heal, after which time you’ll be able to use it again. You may be advised to continue to only wear the splint at night for up to 4 more weeks. In some cases, you may only need to see a specialist once, as a hand physiotherapist may be able to take over your care.

Can you splint an old mallet finger?

When the injury is new, we may recommend that the DIP joint be splinted nonstop in full extension for six to eight weeks. A mallet finger that is up to three months old may require splinting in full extension for eight to 12 weeks.

What is a mallet fracture?

A mallet fracture occurs when the extensor tendon also causes avulsion of the distal phalanx. There are three subtypes of mallet fractures based on the age of the patient and the percent of the articular surface of the distal phalanx involved. The treatment remains controversial.

How do you rehab a mallet finger?

Fingertip stretch

1. With your good hand, grasp your problem finger. Your thumb will be on the top side of this finger. Place your thumb just below the joint that is closest to your fingernail.
2. With your index finger, slowly push the tip of your problem finger up. Push until you feel a stretch.
3. Repeat 2 to 4 times.

What happens if mallet finger doesn’t heal?

Swelling in your finger when you are no longer wearing the splint may be a sign that the tendon has not healed yet. You may need another x-ray of your finger. If your finger has not healed at the end of treatment, your provider may recommend another 4 weeks of wearing the splint.

Is mallet finger permanent?

A Word From Verywell. A mallet finger is more than just a typical jammed finger. Without proper treatment, permanent deformity can be the result. Fortunately, most people can heal this injury with the proper use of a simple splint.

Is it too late to fix my mallet finger?

Probably not. Most of the time, a mallet finger can be fixed by using an orthosis (or splint) that holds it straight for a several weeks; however, sometimes it can be more serious, which is why it is a good idea to have it professionally evaluated.

What if my mallet finger doesn’t heal?

What is the fastest way to heal 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.

How do you fix mallet finger after years?

Is mallet finger serious?

Trauma to a finger usually causes mallet finger. This injury most commonly occurs in sports, particularly when trying to catch a ball that then strikes the tip of a finger—which is why it is often called baseball finger. A mallet finger is not a life-threatening or serious emergency.

How can you treat a mallet finger?

Mallet Finger Self-Care at Home If the finger is cut, clean the cut under running water for a few minutes. Then wrap the finger with clean gauze or a clean cloth. Apply ice to the injured finger joint to reduce swelling and tenderness. Wrap ice in a towel. Do not apply ice directly to your skin. Take care not to injure the finger even more.

What to expect after mallet finger surgery?

Symptoms of mallet finger may include the following: Pain, tenderness, and swelling at the outermost joint immediately after the injury . Swelling and redness soon after the injury. Inability to completely extend the finger, but the patient can move it with assistance.

What are the symptoms of a torn tendon in the finger?

If the ligament on the bottom of the joint (called the volar plate) is torn, the patient may have pain and looseness on the underside of the finger. If a tendon is torn away from its attachment, the patient may be unable to completely bend, straighten, or grip with the finger (or thumb).

Can I take This splint off mallet finger?

Yes, carefully . Splinting for mallet fingers works by keeping the torn end of the extensor tendon closely approximated to the bone. By removing the splint, you risk pulling the tendon away from the bone. This may delay or even prevent healing. The splint should be worn 24hrs/day, 7days/wk for 6 weeks for best results.