What to expect from splinting for mallet finger

Mallet finger affects the tendon that straightens the end joint of a finger. The fingertip may droop after an injury, and the splint holds that joint in its prescribed position while allowing the middle and knuckle joints to move when permitted. It may feel bulky at first, and the finger can remain stiff or swollen. A splint supports healing; it does not repair an associated fracture or joint problem by itself.

Follow the clinician’s instructions about how long to wear the splint. Keep the fingertip supported whenever the splint is removed for cleaning, and do not let the end joint bend unless you have been told it is safe. Keep the splint and skin dry, check for rubbing or pressure, and report worsening soreness, numbness, colour change, or swelling. Avoid gripping activities that force the fingertip down until you receive guidance.

Arrange prompt medical advice if the fingertip becomes newly more drooped, the splint breaks or no longer fits, or the skin develops a blister, open area, spreading redness, or drainage. Urgent assessment is appropriate for a finger that becomes blue, cold, severely swollen, or numb, or after a new injury with intense pain.

Ask which joints you may move, how to clean the splint without bending the fingertip, what to do if it slips during sleep, and when hand therapy or a gradual return to normal use should begin.