A mallet finger is a type of finger injury that occurs when the tendon that straightens the finger is injured. This can happen when you hit your finger with a hammer, or if it gets caught in something and is pulled. If you have a mallet finger, you will probably need to wear a splint to help keep the tendon stretched out.
There are many different ways to splint a mallet finger, and the type of splint you need will depend on the severity of your injury. You may need to wear a splint for a few weeks or months, depending on how bad your injury is.
Causes And Treatments of Mallet Fingers
Mallet finger is a condition that results when the tendon that connects the finger to the hand is damaged. This can cause the finger to droop and can be very painful. There are several causes of mallet fingers, including:
- Fracturing or bruising the bone at the end of the finger: This is the most common cause of mallet fingers. When the bone at the end of the finger is damaged, it can cause the tendon to snap or tear.
- Injury to the tendon that connects the finger to the hand: This can happen from a fall or from a direct hit to the hand.
- A cut on the skin near the end of the finger damages the tendon: This can happen if you cut your finger while cooking or doing another activity that involves using your hands.
There are several treatments for mallet fingers, including:
- Splinting: A splint will hold the finger in a straight position and will help to reduce the swelling and pain.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles and tendons around the finger.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be needed to repair the tendon.
If you are experiencing pain and swelling in your finger, see a doctor right away. Mallet fingers can usually be treated successfully with splinting or physical therapy, but surgery may be needed in some cases.
Splinting Options for Treating a Mallet Finger
Most cases of mallet finger can be treated with splints, which help to keep the tendon stretched out. There are many different types of splints available, and the type you need will depend on the severity of your injury. You may need to wear a splint for a few weeks or months, depending on how bad your injury is.
There are a few different splinting options available for treating a mallet finger. Let’s go through each of them one by one.
Buddy splint
A buddy splint is the most common type of splint and is worn by the unaffected hand. This type of splint helps to keep the finger in the correct position and prevents the finger from bending. It is made up of two pieces of plastic or metal that are attached to each other with an elastic band or Velcro. The splint is then worn on the hand and helps to keep the injured finger in place.
Functional brace
The second type of splint is called a functional brace. This type of brace is worn on the affected hand and helps to keep the finger straight while allowing some movement. Functional braces are typically made out of lightweight plastic or metal and have a hinge in the middle that allows for movement. This type of brace is best for people who still want to be able to use their hands and finger normally.
Dynamic splint
The third type of splint is a dynamic splint. This type of splint allows more movement than a functional brace, but less than a buddy splint. This type of splint is best for people who still want to be able to use their hands and finger normally. They are typically made out of lightweight plastic or metal. There are a few different dynamic splinting options available, and each one varies in terms of how much movement it allows. It is important to consult with a doctor or physical therapist to find the best type of dynamic splint for you.
How To Wear Splints
No matter which type of splint you use, it is important to make sure that it fits your finger properly. The splint should be snug, but not so tight that it cuts off the circulation to your finger. You may need to have the splint adjusted periodically to make sure it is still fitting well.
There are a few different ways to wear a splint. You can wear the splint all the time, except when you are bathing or sleeping, or you can wear it only when you are doing activities that put stress on your finger, such as typing or using a hand tool. In some cases, you can alternate between wearing the splint and not wearing it.
It is important to follow the instructions of your doctor or physical therapist on how to wear your splint. If you have any questions, be sure to ask.
Mallet fingers are a common injury that can be treated with splinting or physical therapy. However, in some cases, surgery may be needed to repair the tendon. If you’re experiencing pain and swelling in your finger, see a doctor right away. When wearing a splint for mallet finger treatment it is important to make sure it fits properly and is not too tight. There are a few different ways to wear a splint, depending on the severity of your injury. Follow the instructions of your doctor or physical therapist for the best results.
