Does splinting treat mallet finger?

Mallet finger happens when the tendon that straightens the fingertip is injured, leaving the end joint drooping. A splint supports that joint in a straight or slightly extended position so the tendon ends can remain aligned during healing. It does not repair every type of injury: a broken bone, a displaced joint, or a more complex wound may need a different plan.

Have a clinician confirm the diagnosis and show you how the splint should sit. Keep the fingertip supported as directed, including during washing if advised; letting it bend unexpectedly can interrupt healing. Keep the skin clean and dry, and check for rubbing, numbness, colour change, or swelling. Do not alter the splint or stop wearing it because the finger looks straighter. Follow-up helps confirm that the joint remains aligned and that the skin is tolerating the device.

Arrange prompt assessment after a new drooping fingertip, especially after a cut, crush injury, or impact. Seek urgent help if the finger becomes pale, blue, cold, severely swollen, numb, or increasingly painful, or if a wound is open or infected. Contact the treating clinician if the splint causes a pressure sore, keeps slipping, or the fingertip bends while it is being changed.

Ask whether the injury involves tendon only or bone and joint, how the splint should be removed safely, what skin checks are needed, and when motion exercises or review should begin.