A ‘mallet finger’ is an injury to the tendon that straightens the end joint of the finger or thumb. The tendon may tear – or it may pull off a small fragment of bone (avulsion).
- It is normal to experience pain, swelling and bruising.
- Over the counter medication can be helpful. We recommend paracetamol as first line pain relief. (Always check the label before use.)
- Carefully follow the instructions in this leaflet regarding the splint.
- The splint provided should be worn continuously for 6 weeks.
- The splint should stay on day and night.
- During this time, it is important to keep the finger straight even when removing the splint to wash. This can be done by placing the hand flat on a table, cutting the tape and sliding off the splint to clean the finger. REMOVE AND REPLACE THE SPLINT WITHOUT ALLOWING THE FINGER TO BEND.
- Try to wash the finger as little as possible to reduce the risk of the finger bending. Initially aim for cleaning the finger twice a week. Make sure to dry thoroughly to protect the skin.
- Following 6 weeks of constant wear, the splint should then be worn for a further 2 weeks overnight and during heavier tasks.
Following removal of the splint you may notice a slight bend in the tip of your finger and you may have a small bump over the joint.
Occasionally, there may some stiffness as you start to get moving again. Pain and swelling are common for several months.
Contacts
Monday to Thursday 830-430, Friday 830 – 12.00
Phone: 01324 566000 and ask switch board to page 1088.