Mallet Finger — Why Your Finger Won't Straighten
Mallet finger happens when the tendon that straightens the fingertip is injured. It's often caused by a ball striking the fingertip, jamming it and tearing the tendon (sometimes with a small fracture).
What You May Notice
The fingertip droops and cannot straighten on its own
Mild pain and swelling at the fingertip
Sometimes bruising or redness
Often occurs in sports but can also happen with everyday mishaps
Why Early Care Matters
If untreated, mallet finger can lead to permanent drooping and stiffness. The tendon needs time in a splint to heal correctly — timing is important.
Treatment Options
Splinting: Worn continuously for 6–8 weeks to keep the fingertip straight. This is the mainstay of treatment and is effective for most cases.
Surgery: Considered if there's a large fracture fragment, joint misalignment, or the splint doesn't work.
Recovery Expectations
Most people regain normal function with splinting if started promptly.
Minor droop may persist in some cases, but function is usually good.
Surgery, when needed, has high success in restoring alignment.
Bottom Line
A fingertip that won't straighten after injury should be treated quickly. With proper care, most mallet fingers heal well without surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mallet finger?
Mallet finger occurs when the tendon that straightens the fingertip is injured (with or without a small fracture), leaving the tip drooping and unable to actively straighten.
Is splinting really necessary?
Yes. Continuous splinting of the fingertip in extension for 6–8 weeks is the mainstay of treatment and is effective for most cases if started promptly and worn correctly.
When is surgery needed for mallet finger?
Surgery is considered for large fracture fragments, joint misalignment, or when splinting fails to correct the droop.
How long does recovery take?
Most recover good function with splinting. Some residual droop can persist but is often minor. Full recovery timelines vary by injury severity and adherence to splinting.
Can I prevent mallet finger?
While accidents happen, proper protective gear during sports and being cautious with ball activities can reduce risk.
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