From the Research
A finger with the top part bent is commonly referred to as a "mallet finger" or "baseball finger," a condition that occurs when the tendon that straightens the end joint of a finger is damaged, usually from a direct blow to the fingertip or forceful bending, as described in the study by 1. This condition results in an inability to straighten the fingertip joint, leaving it in a bent or drooping position. The most recent and highest quality study, 1, published in 2017, provides guidance on the diagnosis and management of mallet finger injuries, emphasizing nonoperative management for almost all cases, with surgical intervention typically reserved for complex injuries, such as those involving more than one-third of the articular surface or volar subluxation of the distal phalanx. Key aspects of treatment include:
- Splinting the finger in a straight position continuously for 6-8 weeks to allow the tendon to heal, as recommended by 2 and 3.
- The importance of wearing the splint at all times, even during bathing, to prevent re-bending the finger and restarting the healing process.
- The potential need for surgery in severe cases or if there's bone involvement, as indicated by 4 and 1. Without proper treatment, the finger may remain permanently bent, highlighting the importance of timely and appropriate management, as noted in 5. This condition is common in sports that involve catching balls but can happen during any activity where the fingertip is struck or forcefully bent.