Mallet finger injury (168kB pdf)
Introduction
We hope this guide will answer your questions about your finger injury. Please contact the team if you require further information via the details at the end of this leaflet.
What is a mallet finger?
You have snapped the tendon that normally straightens the end joint of the finger. The tendon may have pulled off a small fragment of bone. This results in the tip of the finger to lie in a bent position and you are unable to straighten it.
How long will this take to heal?
Most injuries heal without any problems however it may take several months to regain normal function
What are the treatment options?
Usual treatment involves painkillers and a splint.
Will I need follow up?
Routine follow up is not necessary due to the nature of the injury. Hand therapy or physiotherapy is advised to commence at 6-8 weeks post injury. Please ask your GP for a referral.
Are there any complications?
There may be redness, swelling and slight pain over the joint for a few months which will settle. You may be left with a small bump or unable to straighten the finger fully. This will be permanent but will not affect normal function.
How will this be managed?
A splint will be applied and should be worn continuously, even at night, to keep the finger straight for 8 weeks.
During this time, it is important to keep the finger straight, even when taking the splint off to wash. This can be done by placing the hand flat on a table, removing the splint and cleaning the finger. Replace the splint without bending the finger.
At the end of the 8 weeks, the splint is worn for a further 4 weeks at night and whenever the finger might be at risk of injury.
After the splint has stopped being used (around 12 weeks) it is important to keep moving the finger gently and gradually resume daily activities within the limits of discomfort. This will help improve any stiffness and ensure the safest return to normal function.
Is there anything to avoid?
Washing the finger as little as possible to reduce chance of the finger bending. Aim to clean the finger twice a week. It is important to keep the finger and splint dry to avoid skin irritation.
What are the options if I am unable to straighten my finger over time?
Occasionally the tendon fails to heal and the finger ends up with a significant droop at the end joint. Surgical fusion of the end joint can then be considered. Your own GP will need to refer you for this.
Smoking cessation
Stopping smoking will ensure optimal recovery from this injury therefore it is important to consider this advice. For more information and help, contact your GP or refer to NHS website.
Contacting the team
If your pain in your ankle becomes worse, lasts more than four weeks or you are concerned about your ankle, please contact the virtual fracture clinic team on 01279 973362 Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm.
Out of hours please contact the orthopaedic Resident Doctor on-call via
switchboard on 01279 444455.
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Accessibility
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