What Is Mallet Finger?
Mallet finger occurs when the terminal extensor tendon is disrupted, typically when a ball or object strikes the tip of a straightened finger. The result is a drooping fingertip that cannot be actively extended. It is common in baseball, basketball, and football players, but also occurs in everyday activities.
Types
- Tendon mallet — the extensor tendon ruptures without a bone fragment
- Bony mallet — an avulsion fracture pulls a piece of bone away; requires careful evaluation to determine if surgery is needed
Symptoms
- Drooping fingertip that cannot be actively straightened
- Pain, swelling, and bruising at the fingertip
- Tenderness over the back of the last finger joint
Treatment
Splinting
The vast majority of mallet fingers are treated successfully with continuous splinting of the DIP joint in full extension for 6–8 weeks. The key is maintaining extension at all times — even one moment of flexion resets healing. Dr. Richards will custom fit your splint and provide detailed instructions.
Surgery
Reserved for bony mallet injuries with large fracture fragments or joint subluxation. Options include pin or screw fixation of the fragment.