Mallet (a.k.a. “Baseball”) Finger is a common injury that occurs at the end of a finger. Despite its alternative name, this injury is not limited to those who only play baseball!
Mallet Finger occurs when a finger makes forceful contact with an immobile/unyielding object. As such, the extensor tendon that is responsible for straightening the last joint of a finger (or thumb) snaps as the end of a finger is forced to bend farther than it can under normal conditions. Muscles end in a tendon which attaches to a bone so that when a muscle contracts, a bone/joint moves. In Mallet Finger, when a tendon snaps, the end of the affected finger will take on a bent appearance and an individual will not be able to straighten it under their own power (but it can be straightened by using your other hand). In some cases, the tendon may not rupture but the bone where the tendon binds to may be pulled off (a.k.a. “avulsion fracture”). In this scenario, the end result is the same but caused by a fracture as opposed to a tendon snapping.
Typically speaking, the dominant hand middle, ring and small finger are the most likely to suffer from Mallet Finger. Aside from the obvious immobile bend in the affected finger, the area may also be painful, swollen and/or visibly bruised. In the scenario that there is blood beneath the nail of the affected finger or if the nail is detached, seek an ER immediately. In this scenario, there can be a potential infection risk as there may be a nail bed rupture or “open fracture” present.
Regarding treatment, an x-ray of the affected finger may be ordered in order to ensure a fracture isn’t present. Mallet Finger can be treated conservatively with few cases requiring surgery however, you may want to seek treatment as soon as possible so as not to risk resulting in a permanent deformity. Typically, treatment requires the temporary use of a splint until the tendon and/or bone heals. After enough time, rehab can be initiated!
If you think you may be suffering from Mallet Finger, book an assessment with one of our treatment staff today!
Author: Dr. Paolo De Ciantis, B.Sc.(Hons.), M.Sc., D.C.