'Mallet finger' is an injury to the end of the finger that causes it to bend towards the palm.
'Mallet finger' is an injury to the end of the finger that causes it to bend towards the palm.
You won't be able to straighten the end of the finger because the tendon that connects the muscle to the finger bone is torn. The finger will also be painful and swollen.
Mallet finger is most often caused by a trivial injury, such as catching the finger while tucking in bed sheets, or catching it on a coat.
If you think you have mallet finger, go to your doctor to have it splinted. You should do this as soon as possible – the earlier it is treated, the better the outcome.
Try to keep your hand raised until the doctor sees you – this will help to reduce any swelling and pain.
You can take an over-the-counter painkiller, such as paracetamol, to relieve the pain.
Your finger will be placed in a plastic splint, which keeps it straight with the end joint slightly bent backwards. You'll still be able to bend the finger at the middle joint.
The splint is taped on and must be worn day and night for six to eight weeks to allow the two ends of the torn tendon to stay together and heal. It should only be removed for cleaning.
It's really important that the end of your finger does not bend during the time it is splinted, as this may slow down healing.
You should only need surgery if the
(known as a mallet fracture), or in the uncommon situation where the mallet finger fails to heal.The splinted finger must be kept clean and dry at all times. If the skin becomes wet inside the splint, it will become very sore.
It's important to wash both your finger and the splint at least once a day, following these instructions:
Your mallet finger should heal within six to eight weeks, after which time you'll be able to use the finger again. You may be advised to continue to wear the splint at night for a few more weeks.
It may take several months to regain full function.
Redness, swelling and tenderness of the skin around the end of the finger are common for three or four months after injury, but usually settle eventually.
You may be left with a small bump on the top of the joint and a slight loss of ability to straighten the joint (it never really goes completely back to normal). However, the finger should generally function well.
Important: Our website provides useful information but is not a substitute for medical advice. You should always seek the advice of your doctor when making decisions about your health.