What is the first treatment for mallet finger?

Mallet finger happens when the tendon that straightens the fingertip is injured. The fingertip may droop and may be difficult to lift by itself. A correctly fitted splint keeps the end joint in the position needed for healing while allowing the middle joint to move. A clinician should check the finger because a small fracture or joint displacement can change the treatment plan.

Use the prescribed splint exactly as instructed and keep the fingertip supported during washing or changing the splint. If the fingertip bends unexpectedly, tell your clinician because the healing schedule may need to restart. Keep the skin clean and dry, and report pressure, sores, colour change, or increasing swelling. Do not test the tendon repeatedly by removing the splint unless you have been shown how. If the tendon does not heal in the expected position, tendon repair surgery may be discussed.

Seek prompt assessment after the injury, particularly if the finger is very swollen, visibly crooked, numb, blue, or difficult to move at more than one joint. Get advice quickly if the splint breaks, slips, causes a skin wound, or no longer holds the fingertip straight. Early examination helps identify an associated fracture or joint problem.

Is the tendon injury isolated, or is there a fracture? Which splint design fits my finger? How should I bathe and change it without bending the fingertip?