Did a ball or other object hit the end of your finger? Did you smack the end of your finger against something hard, or crush your fingertip in a door or drawer? If so, you may have Mallet Finger. Mallet Finger also called “baseball finger,” is when the end of your finger droops in a bent position and won’t straighten by itself. You can push your finger into a straight position but it won’t stay straight without support. So right about now you’re probably asking yourself- “ what should I do about my mallet finger ”?
How Can I Treat My Mallet Finger?
The majority of mallet finger injuries can be treated without surgery. The key is to seek immediate treatment from your health care provider. Don’t assume because you can still use your hand or finger, it isn’t necessary to see your doctor. With mallet finger, the longer the joint remains in the bent position, the harder it will be to fix.
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Immediate Treatment:
Apply ice or a cold compress to reduce swelling. Do not put ice directly on the skin but be sure to wrap it in a towel or something similar. Wash out any cuts and apply an antibiotic cream to prevent infection.
It’s important to treat a mallet finger as soon as possible with a finger splint that holds your finger straight(full time) for 4 to 6 weeks to allow the tendon to heal. Your healthcare provider can help you confirm that splinting is the appropriate treatment. Your splint can be removed carefully for washing and skin care, but you must keep your finger straight at all times or the healing process will be disrupted.
Finger Splint Options
There are a few types of splints that can be used for mallet finger, each having advantages and disadvantages.
1. Aluminum and Foam Splints
Advantages | Disadvantages |
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2. Stax Splint
Advantages | Disadvantages |
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3. Oval-8® Finger Splints
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Our blogs are educational in nature and are not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Because your condition is unique to you, it is recommended that you consult with your health care provider before attempting any medical or therapeutic treatments. We are always happy to answer questions about products mentioned in our blogs, however, we cannot provide a diagnosis or medical advice.
About the Author:
Ginny Wolfe has been a dedicated team member at Oh My Arthritis (OMA) for over a decade. Her knowledge and expertise of OMA’s orthopedic products play a vital role in providing valuable health and wellness information. This information effectively showcases the benefits and features of their products, empowering customers to make informed choices.
OMA is celebrated for its dedication to improving the lives of those living with arthritis, injuries, and various health conditions. With a mission to deliver innovative and effective solutions, OMA has earned trust by offering products that alleviate pain and enhance joint mobility. Known for its premium splints, braces, and supports, OMA empowers individuals to maintain an active lifestyle while finding relief.
11days ago I damaged my tendon it come of the bone in my middle finger how long does it take to heal properly
HI Tracy, We are very sorry to hear about your finger injury. While we can offer insights on various health conditions, it is important to note that we are not medical professionals and are unable to provide you with information on your injury or the recovery time. We suggest that you reach out to your healthcare provider to receive an accurate diagnosis and explore the appropriate treatment options. We sincerely hope that you find relief soon.