Mallet finger, also known as “baseball finger,” is a common injury that affects the extensor tendon in the finger, often caused by a forceful blow to the fingertip. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of the Mallet finger, its treatment stages, and how specialized ring-splints like silver and titanium ring-splints can aid in its rehabilitation.
What is Mallet Finger? Mallet finger occurs when the extensor tendon of the finger is damaged, leading to the inability to fully extend the fingertip. This condition can result from sports injuries, accidents, or even everyday activities.
Stages of Mallet Finger:
1. Acute Stage: In the acute phase of the Mallet finger, immediate care is crucial. Applying ice, splinting the finger in a neutral/light hyperextension position, and seeking medical attention is essential to prevent further damage.
2. Rehabilitation Stage: Once the acute phase has passed, rehabilitation plays a vital role in restoring finger function. This is where specialized splints like ring splints come into play, providing support and stability to the injured finger during the healing process.
Types of Mallet Finger: There are various types of mallet fingers, including open and closed injuries, as well as bony and non-bony mallet fingers. Each type may require a slightly different approach to treatment and rehabilitation.
Bony Mallet Finger: In a bony mallet finger, there is a fracture or avulsion of the bone along with the extensor tendon injury. This type of injury involves an evident bony component.
The treatment for a bony mallet finger may often require a more conservative or sometimes even surgical intervention, depending on the severity of the bone fracture. Immobilization and possible fixation may be necessary to promote optimal healing of the bone and tendon.
Non-Bony Mallet Finger: A non-bony mallet finger involves a pure soft tissue injury without any bone involvement. It primarily affects the extensor tendon at the distal interphalangeal joint.
Treatment Approach: Non-bony mallet fingers are typically treated conservatively through splinting or buddy taping the affected finger in a slightly extended position. Occupational therapy exercises and regular monitoring may be recommended for the successful rehabilitation of the extensor tendon.
Key Treatment Variances: Bony Mallet Finger Treatment: Surgical intervention may be required for severe bone fractures. Immobilization and possible fixation of the bone fragment. Close monitoring for bone healing and tendon recovery.
Non-Bony Mallet Finger Treatment: Conservative management through splinting. Occupational therapy exercises to strengthen the extensor tendon. Regular assessment to ensure proper tendon healing without bone involvement.
Causes of Mallet Finger: Mallet finger can be caused by sudden trauma, such as jamming the finger or a forceful impact. It can also result from repetitive stress on the extensor tendon, leading to chronic mallet fingers.
The Role of Silver and Titanium Ring-Splints: Silver and titanium ring splints offer a durable and hypoallergenic solution for supporting the affected finger. These finger splints provide stability while allowing flexibility in other finger joints, crucial for hand rehabilitation.
Conclusion: In conclusion, understanding the different stages, types, and causes of Mallet finger is essential for effective treatment.
In the case of Mallet finger, we highly recommend using silver ring splints or titanium ring splints, and here are the reasons on which we base our recommendation.
Silver ring splints provide finger stabilization over an extended period crucial for recovery from mallet finger. Unlike typical plastic mallet finger splints bought off the shelf or made from thermoplastic materials, which often lead to skin irritation, sweating, and unpleasant odors, silver ring splints or titanium ring splints offer the same stabilization function without causing sweating or skin issues. Their design allows for ventilation, minimizing sweat and skin irritation, while also providing minimal fixation without involving unaffected joints. This feature ensures comfortable and effective finger support during the recovery process.
