Got a Drooping Fingertip? It Could Be Mallet Finger
Dr. Durand Can Help You Regain Full Finger Function
If you’ve ever accidentally jammed your fingertip and noticed that it didn’t straighten out completely, you may suffer from a mallet finger. Often called ‘baseball finger,’ this injury occurs when the tendon that straightens your fingertip is overstretched or torn. It’s a common injury in sports such as baseball and basketball but can also occur in everyday life. Dr. Daniel Durand specializes in treating mallet fingers and helping patients regain comfort, movement, and confidence in their hands.
What Causes Mallet Finger?
Mallet’s finger usually results from a violent impact on the fingertip, bending it sharply downwards. This sudden movement can damage the tendon or, in some cases, cause a minor fracture at the tip of the finger where the tendon attaches. The injury can occur during a match, if a ball hits the fingertip, or even during everyday activities, such as tucking in bed sheets or doing household chores.
Recognizing the Symptoms
The most telling sign of a mallet finger is a fingertip that sags and does not fully straighten. You may also notice swelling, bruising or tenderness around the area soon after the injury. Although it doesn’t always cause severe pain, a restricted range of movement can interfere with your daily activities and, if left untreated, can lead to stiffness over time.
Treatment Options for Mallet Finger
Dr. Durand suggests a variety of treatment options to restore finger movement and function:
- Splinting: In most cases, Dr. Durand recommends starting with a splint, which keeps the fingertip straight and allows the tendon to heal. You’ll likely need to wear the splint continuously for about six to eight weeks, followed by a gradual adjustment to regular activity. It might initially feel odd, but it’s the most effective non-surgical approach.
- Surgery: If there’s a fracture or extensive tendon damage, surgery might be necessary. Dr. Durand performs precise surgical repairs to reconnect the tendon or stabilize the fracture, ensuring the best possible healing.
Getting Back to Normal
Mallet fingers might feel limiting, but with the proper care, you can regain your entire range of motion. Get treatment in a private hand surgery clinic by the US and Canada board-certified Hand Surgeon Dr. Daniel Durand!
We treat patients from the Toronto GTA area, Ottawa, Kingston, Oshawa, Cornwall, Montreal in Ontario, and Quebec provinces, as well as all over Canada.
Rapid appointments, unhurried consultations and excellent care. Get back the quality of life you deserve, pain-free. Schedule a consultation, even if you are out of the province patient, we will call you back to assess your concerns!