From the Guidelines
For a ring finger injury requiring stability, a buddy splint or an aluminum/foam splint is typically the best option. A buddy splint involves taping the injured ring finger to an adjacent finger (usually the middle finger) using medical tape with gauze between the fingers to prevent skin irritation. This provides good stability while allowing some functional movement. Alternatively, an aluminum/foam splint that can be molded to the finger's shape offers excellent support. These splints have a malleable aluminum core covered with foam padding and can be secured with medical tape or velcro straps. For proper application, the finger should be splinted in a slightly bent position (functional position) rather than completely straight. The splint should extend from the fingertip past the knuckle to immobilize the injured joint effectively. Wear the splint continuously for the first 1-2 weeks, then gradually reduce usage as healing progresses, typically over 3-6 weeks depending on injury severity. These splints work by preventing movement that could worsen the injury while supporting the finger's natural alignment, allowing ligaments and tendons to heal properly.
Some key considerations when choosing a splint include:
- The need for stability and support to promote healing
- The importance of maintaining some functional movement to prevent stiffness and promote recovery
- The potential risks and benefits of different types of splints, including the risk of skin irritation or other complications
It's also important to note that while splinting can be an effective way to manage ring finger injuries, it's not always the best option. In some cases, other treatments such as physical therapy or pain management may be more effective. As noted in a study on occupational therapy consensus recommendations for functional neurological disorder 1, splinting may prevent restoration of normal movement and function, and can have potential problems such as increasing attention and focus to the area, thereby exacerbating symptoms. However, in the context of a ring finger injury requiring stability, a buddy splint or an aluminum/foam splint is generally a good option.
In terms of specific evidence, a study on the management of osteoarthritis of the hand, hip, and knee 1 notes that hand orthoses are strongly recommended for patients with first CMC joint OA, and conditionally recommended for patients with OA in other joints of the hand. While this study does not specifically address ring finger injuries, it highlights the importance of providing support and stability to the hand and fingers in order to promote healing and prevent further injury.
Overall, the best type of ring finger splint for an injury that needs to give finger stability will depend on the specific needs and circumstances of the individual. However, a buddy splint or an aluminum/foam splint is generally a good option, and can provide the necessary support and stability to promote healing and prevent further injury.
From the Research
Types of Ring Finger Splints
- Extension block splinting (EBS) is a technique used for treating reduced dorsal dislocations/fracture-dislocations at the proximal interphalangeal joints of the fingers, as discussed in 2.
- Dorsal nail glued splint is another type of splint that has been used to treat mallet finger, with a study of 270 cases showing promising results with minimal complications 3.
Stability and Motion
- The EBS technique allows for early protected motion, which is beneficial for finger stability and recovery 2.
- The dorsal nail glued splint preserves digital pulp function and improves patient observance, leading to better outcomes in terms of extension deficit and joint involvement 3.
Specific Injuries
- For ring finger injuries, a study found that satisfactory finger motion occurred with salvage of fingers in which no damage occurred to the proximal phalanx or flexor digitorum sublimus or profundus tendons 4.
- Another study discussed the use of a modified Elson technique for sagittal band reconstruction in the index finger, but did not specifically address ring finger splints 5.