What are the treatment options for mallet finger?

Mallet finger occurs when the tendon that straightens the fingertip is injured, sometimes with a small bone fragment. The fingertip may droop and may not actively straighten, although it can often be moved with the other hand. An examination and sometimes an X-ray help identify the injury pattern and whether the joint is aligned.

Splinting holds the end joint straight so the injured tendon can heal. The splint must be worn exactly as instructed, including during activities that could bend the fingertip; skin checks and safe cleaning matter because moisture and pressure can irritate the skin. Keep the fingertip supported while the splint is removed only in the manner taught by your clinician.

Tendon repair surgery may be discussed when the joint is not well aligned, a fracture involves the joint, or the injury does not respond to appropriate splinting. The operation and aftercare depend on the tendon and bone damage, so a hand specialist should explain the expected rehabilitation.

Have a new drooping fingertip assessed soon, particularly after a ball strike, fall, or cut. Seek prompt help if the finger becomes pale, blue, cold, very swollen, numb, or increasingly painful. Contact your treating team if the splint causes sores, slips repeatedly, or the fingertip bends while it is meant to stay supported.

Is the tendon injury associated with a fracture or joint displacement? How should I remove and refit the splint for cleaning? Which skin changes need review? What would make tendon repair surgery preferable, and how would hand therapy fit into recovery?