It’s frequently caused byjammingyour finger.
Often there isbruising noted underneath the fingernail.
Always take it seriously when an injury leads to your finger not looking normal or bending properly.
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Diagnosis
Diagnosing mallet finger is fairly simple, since it’s a pretty obvious injury.
Doctors will examine the finger and typically perform anX-rayto assess the finger joints and the bones.
A Stack splint is the easiest key in of splint to use for this injury.
It is shaped like your fingertip and slips over your finger to below the level of the joint.
you could find ones that are clear or are flesh-colored.
Since a Stack splint is usually worn for four to eight weeks, this can be a significant challenge.
With a splint in place and the fingertip kept straight, there should not be significant discomfort.
When Surgery Is Necessary
Some situations may require surgical intervention.
This is called bony mallet finger.
If the bone fragment is large enough, it may require surgical treatment to prevent joint problems from developing.
This abnormal force creates hyperextension of that knuckle and can lead to deformity over time.
Sometimes, a swan-neck deformity is a cosmetic issue, leading to no significant functional problems.
In other cases, though, it can impair your finger’s normal function.
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.
Having this injury evaluated and properly treated is critical to the successful recovery from a mallet finger injury.
Not having proper treatment can lead to permanent deformity.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, OrthoInfo.Mallet finger (baseball finger).
2015 Oct;23(10):623-32. doi:10.5435/JAAOS-D-14-00272
