What are the common causes of ligament damage in fingers. How is a sprained finger diagnosed and classified. What treatment options are available for different severities of finger sprains. When should you seek medical attention for a finger injury.

Understanding Finger Anatomy and Ligament Function

To comprehend ligament damage in fingers, it’s crucial to first understand the basic anatomy. Each finger consists of three small bones called phalanges, separated by two interphalangeal joints. The thumb is unique, having only two phalanges and one interphalangeal joint. These joints are stabilized by collateral ligaments running along each side, which are frequently injured in sports-related incidents.

Why are ligaments important for finger function? Ligaments are tough, elastic bands of tissue that connect bones and provide stability to joints. In fingers, they play a critical role in allowing controlled movement while preventing excessive motion that could lead to injury.

Key Components of Finger Anatomy:

• Phalanges: The small bones that make up each finger
• Interphalangeal joints: Joints between the phalanges
• Collateral ligaments: Stabilizing structures on either side of the joints

Common Causes of Ligament Damage in Fingers

Ligament damage in fingers often occurs during sports activities, particularly those involving balls. The most frequent mechanism of injury is a forceful blow to the fingertip, causing the joint to hyperextend or move sideways. This can stretch or tear the collateral ligaments.

Which sports pose the highest risk for finger ligament injuries? Basketball, baseball, and softball players are particularly susceptible due to the frequent handling of fast-moving balls. However, any sport or activity that involves potential impact to the fingers can lead to ligament damage.

Common Injury Mechanisms:

1. Direct impact from a ball to the fingertip
2. Catching a finger in a jersey or piece of sports equipment
3. Sudden, forceful bending of the finger beyond its normal range of motion

Classification and Symptoms of Sprained Fingers

Sprained fingers are classified into three degrees of severity, each with distinct symptoms and implications for treatment and recovery. Understanding these classifications helps in properly assessing and managing the injury.

First-Degree Sprain (Mild)

A first-degree sprain involves stretching of the ligaments without tearing. What are the typical symptoms of a mild finger sprain?

• Localized swelling and pain around the injured joint
• Slight limitation in finger flexion and extension due to swelling
• Minimal impact on finger strength
• Ability to continue sports participation, often with protective taping

Second-Degree Sprain (Moderate)

Second-degree sprains involve partial tearing of the ligament and possible damage to the joint capsule. How do symptoms differ from a first-degree sprain?

• Significant swelling and pain, potentially extending throughout the finger
• Increased limitation in range of motion affecting both joints in the finger
• Tenderness to touch, especially over the injury site
• Noticeable laxity when the ligament is tested, but with a definite endpoint

Third-Degree Sprain (Severe)

The most severe classification, a third-degree sprain involves complete rupture of the ligament. What are the hallmarks of a severe finger sprain?

• Severe swelling, pain, and possible discoloration
• Significant laxity and instability of the finger
• Potential association with finger subluxation or dislocation
• Possible avulsion fracture if the ligament pulls away bone at its attachment point

Diagnosing Ligament Damage in Fingers

Proper diagnosis of finger ligament damage is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment plan. How do healthcare professionals diagnose a sprained finger?

The diagnostic process typically involves:

1. Thorough medical history: Understanding the mechanism of injury and immediate symptoms
2. Comprehensive physical assessment: Evaluating swelling, range of motion, and ligament stability
3. Imaging studies: X-rays may be ordered, especially for suspected third-degree sprains, to rule out fractures

Why is it important to seek professional evaluation for finger injuries? While minor sprains may heal on their own, more severe injuries can lead to long-term instability or deformity if not properly treated. A healthcare professional can accurately assess the severity of the injury and recommend appropriate treatment.

Treatment Approaches for Finger Ligament Injuries

Treatment for finger ligament injuries varies depending on the severity of the sprain. What are the primary goals of treatment? The main objectives are to reduce pain and swelling, promote healing, and restore function to the injured finger.

Conservative Treatment Methods

For mild to moderate sprains, conservative treatment is often sufficient. What does this typically involve?

• PRICE principle: Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation
• Taping or buddy taping the injured finger to an adjacent finger for support
• Gentle range of motion exercises as pain allows
• Gradual return to activities as symptoms improve

Medical Interventions for Severe Sprains

In cases of severe sprains or those associated with dislocations, more intensive treatment may be necessary. What options are available for managing severe finger ligament injuries?

• Splinting or casting to immobilize the injured joint
• Possible surgical intervention for complete ligament tears or unstable joints
• Physical therapy to restore strength and range of motion post-healing

Recovery and Rehabilitation for Finger Ligament Damage

Recovery time for finger ligament injuries can vary significantly based on the severity of the sprain and the individual’s healing capacity. How long does it typically take to recover from a finger sprain?

• Mild sprains: 2-4 weeks
• Moderate sprains: 4-6 weeks
• Severe sprains: 6-8 weeks or longer, especially if surgery is required

What factors can influence recovery time? Age, overall health, compliance with treatment protocols, and the specific demands placed on the finger (e.g., for athletes or musicians) can all impact the duration of recovery.

Rehabilitation Exercises

Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in restoring function and preventing future injuries. What types of exercises are commonly prescribed for finger ligament rehabilitation?

1. Range of motion exercises: Gentle flexion, extension, and lateral movements
2. Strengthening exercises: Using putty or small objects to improve grip strength
3. Proprioception training: Exercises to improve joint position sense and coordination
4. Sport-specific or activity-specific drills: Gradually reintroducing movements related to the individual’s regular activities

Preventing Finger Ligament Injuries in Sports

While not all finger injuries can be prevented, there are strategies to reduce the risk, particularly in sports settings. How can athletes protect their fingers from ligament damage?

• Proper technique: Learning and practicing correct ball-handling techniques
• Protective equipment: Using appropriate gloves or taping techniques when applicable
• Conditioning: Strengthening hand and finger muscles to improve overall stability
• Awareness: Being mindful of potential risks and avoiding unnecessary exposure to injury

Is it beneficial to tape fingers preventively? While some athletes choose to tape their fingers as a preventive measure, the effectiveness of this practice is debated. It may provide some additional support, but it’s not a guarantee against injury.

Long-Term Implications of Finger Ligament Damage

Understanding the potential long-term effects of finger ligament injuries is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers. Can finger sprains lead to chronic issues?

In some cases, especially with severe sprains or inadequate treatment, long-term complications may arise:

• Chronic pain or stiffness in the affected joint
• Reduced range of motion or strength
• Increased susceptibility to future injuries
• Development of osteoarthritis in the affected joint

How can these long-term effects be minimized? Proper initial treatment, adherence to rehabilitation protocols, and patience in returning to full activity levels are key factors in preventing chronic issues following finger ligament injuries.

Monitoring and Follow-Up

Regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential components of managing finger ligament injuries. What should patients look out for during the recovery process?

• Persistent pain or swelling beyond the expected recovery timeline
• Difficulty regaining full range of motion or strength
• Signs of instability in the affected joint
• Any new or worsening symptoms

When should a patient seek additional medical attention? If progress stalls or symptoms worsen, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to reassess the injury and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

In conclusion, understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for finger ligament damage is crucial for proper management and optimal recovery. Whether you’re an athlete, healthcare provider, or someone dealing with a finger injury, being informed about the intricacies of these injuries can lead to better outcomes and a quicker return to normal activities. Remember, while many finger sprains can be managed conservatively, severe injuries require professional evaluation and care to ensure the best possible long-term results.

Sprained Finger | treatment, taping and recovery with P.R.I.C.E principle

By Terry Zeigler, EdD, ATC 

Last Updated on February 3, 2023 by SportsMD

A sprained finger is common in sports with the most common injury being a sprain to one of the ligaments located within the finger. Each finger has three small bones (phalanges) separated by two interphalangeal joints. The thumb is unique and has one interphalangeal joint and only two small phalange bones.

A sprain is an injury to a ligament. Each of the joints located in the finger has collateral ligaments that run along each side of the joints. It is these collateral ligaments that are commonly sprained in sports. Athletes in sports that use balls are the most at risk for a sprained finger including athletes competing in the sports of basketball, baseball, and softball.

Classifications of a sprained finger? 

A sprained finger is classified from mild to severe and is diagnosed as first-degree, second-degree, or third-degree sprains.

First degree sprained finger

Is considered mild because the ligaments are only stretched and not torn. The athlete may complain of localized swelling and pain around the injured joint. The athlete’s ability to flex and extend the finger may be somewhat limited due to the swelling within the joint. Last, the strength of the finger is usually not affected.

First degree sprained finger symptoms are:

1. Pain while trying to move your finger
2. Swelling on the finger or joint
3. Tenderness or stiffness of your finger joint.

In most first degree sprains, the athlete is able to continue participating in sports. However, the athlete may benefit from taping the injured finger to an adjacent finger to prevent further injury.

Second degree sprained finger

Results in more damage to the ligament and may also include damage to the joint capsule as well. Because the force of the injury is stronger, the resulting damage may include a partial tear of the ligament and associated joint capsule.

This type of injury results in significantly more swelling and pain. The swelling may extend throughout the finger within the first few hours possibly limiting the range of motion of both joints within the finger. The joint may also be tender to touch specifically over the injury site.

The primary difference between a first and second-degree sprain is that there will be laxity in a second-degree sprain when the ligament is tested. This means that when a ligament test is performed on an athlete with a first-degree sprain, the ligament will be tight. However, a ligament stress test performed on an athlete with a second-degree sprain will result in a visual opening of the joint line, but there will be an end point indicating that the ligament is only partially torn.

Third-degree sprained finger

Is the most severe sprain resulting in a complete rupture of the ligament. A full ligament rupture usually occurs at its attachment, but may also occur in the middle of the ligament. In some cases, the bone can actually be pulled away from the distal attachment causing an avulsion fracture.

A third-degree sprained finger is often associated with a subluxation or dislocation of the finger. A subluxation is a partial dislocation that reduces itself and the athlete may not even realize that it has occurred.

An athlete will notice a dislocation of the finger because of the amount of pain and obvious deformity of the finger. The initial instinct of the athlete is to pull on the finger to reduce the dislocation. Even if the athlete reduces the dislocation, the athlete should still be splinted and referred for an x-ray.

A third-degree sprain will result in laxity and instability of the finger with severe swelling, pain, and possibly discoloration. All athletes with a suspected third-degree sprain need to have the finger splinted and then be referred for an x-ray to rule out a possible fracture.

Diagnosis 

A sports medicine professional can diagnose a sprained finger given a thorough medical history and comprehensive physical assessment. If a third-degree sprain is suspected, an x-ray can be ordered to rule out a possible fracture. 

Causes 

The most common mechanism of a sprained finger is a blow to the end of a finger caused by a ball traveling at high speed. An example is a basketball player mishandling a pass and catching it off the end of the finger or a baseball player taking a bad bounce off of a groundball and having the ball strike the end of the finger.

The force of the blow at the end of the finger reverberates up the finger to the joint causing the joint to either hyperextend or move sideways. Either one of these movements can injure the collateral ligaments in the fingers.

Another mechanism of injury in sports is catching a finger in a jersey or piece of sports equipment. If the force is stronger than the tensile strength of the ligament, the ligament can be stretched or torn.

Sprained finger treatment

Once a fracture has been ruled out, sports injury treatment using the P. R.I.C.E. principle should be utilized. Ice can be applied for twenty minutes every two hours either through the use of a small ice pack or cold water immersion.

Coldwater immersion is an effective treatment for a sprained finger because the cold water can surround all of the injured area rather than just one side of the finger as in the application of an ice pack. Coldwater immersion can easily be accomplished with the use of a large cup, water, and the addition of some ice.

An athlete with a second-degree sprain should have the finger splinted by either buddy taping the injured finger to the adjacent finger or by utilizing an aluminum splint. The finger should be splinted so that the injured joint and adjacent bones are immobilized. Aluminum splints can be custom cut to fit and bent to accommodate most finger injuries.

Because there is more tissue damaged in a second-degree sprain, the finger will swell more and may have some discoloration. As in a first-degree sprain, the athlete should utilize the P.R.I.C.E Principle for the first 48-72 hours.

As the swelling begins to diminish, the athlete can begin gentle range of motion exercises to begin to regain the flexibility of the finger. This can be accomplished using a number of different items including a tennis ball, racquetball, or rolled sock.

The athlete places the object in his/her hand and gently squeezes. This exercise increases both the range of motion of the joint plus the strength of the muscles in and around the injured joint. The athlete gradually squeezes the ball and then relaxes. This can be performed ten times every hour.

Care should be taken for the athlete not to squeeze so hard that it causes pain. As the ligament and tissue heal, the athlete can gradually increase the intensity of the grip on the ball.

An athlete with a third-degree sprain should be seen by a sports medicine physician and may need to have the injury surgically repaired.

Sprained Finger and When to See the Doctor

Hundreds of athletes sustain acute injuries every day, which can be treated safely at home using the P.R.I.C.E. principle. But if there are signs or symptoms of a serious injury, emergency first aid should be provided while keeping the athlete calm and still until emergency service personnel arrive. Signs of an emergency situation when you should seek care and doctor treatment can include:

• Bone or joint that is clearly deformed or broken
• Severe swelling and/or pain,
• Unsteady breathing or pulse
• Disorientation or confusion
• Paralysis, tingling, or numbness

In addition, an athlete should seek medical care if acute symptoms do not go away after rest and home treatment using the P.R.I.C.E principle.

Returning to sports with a sprained finger

Because long term swelling is fairly common in sprained fingers, gaining full flexibility can take a long time. In some cases, the joint can look swollen for up to one year post-injury.

Most athletes return fairly quickly to sport after a sprained finger, but will utilize a buddy tape job to protect the finger from further injury. The finger should be taped to an adjacent finger above and below the injured joint with ½ inch athletic tape. This ensures that the joint is protected, but also allows the athlete to flex and extend his/her fingers as needed.

Can Telemedicine Help?

Telemedicine is gaining popularity because it can help bring you and the doctor together quicker and more efficiently. It is particularly well suited for sports injuries such as a sprained finger and facilitating the diagnosis of the severity of the injury and a treatment plan.  Learn more about speaking with a sports specialized provider via SportsMD’s 24/7 Telemedicine Service.

QA’s

Question: How do you know if your finger is sprained?

Answer: A sprained finger will have pain and swelling around the injured joint with stiffness when trying to move.

Question: How long does a sprained finger take to heal?

Answer: The healing time for a finger sprain is dependent on the severity of the injury.  A Grade 1 sprain will start to feel better in 3-5 days and can successfully recover in 2-4 weeks.  A grade 3 finger sprain is the most severe sprain resulting in a complete rupture of the ligament and can take several months to heal.

Question:  What does a sprain feel like finger?

Answer:  A sprained finger will have pain and swelling around the injured joint with stiffness when trying to move.

Question: Can a sprained finger heal on its own?

Answer:  Yes, sprained fingers can heal on their own but it does depend on the severity of the injury.  Mild finger sprains usually improve in a few days with basic care and heal entirely after a few weeks of Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (P.R.I.C.E) .

Mallet finger is not a sprain, it’s a complete disruption of the tendon that straightens the joint at the tip of the finger. Tendon can be avulsed (pulled off) from the bone or simply tear. Surgery is an option for quicker stabilization (we regular people wear a splint for 8 wks) https://t.co/GE4ntdtCaJ

— DocFlynn (@DocFlynnNFL) October 8, 2021

NBA started tracking shots in 1996-97.

Michael Jordan played through a badly sprained wrist and dislocated index finger in 1997-98. He suffered permanent damage to that finger in January 1999.

From 1996-2003, MJ ranked #1 in clutch shooting with 5 seconds left…9-22, or 40.9%. pic.twitter.com/CSeePIO529

— AirJordans23 (@AirJordans2323) January 11, 2023

References

• Anderson, M., Parr, G., & Hall, S. (2009). Foundations of Athletic Training: Prevention, Assessment, and Management. (4th Ed.). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins: Philadelphia, PA.
• Bahr, R. & Maehlum, S. (2004). Clinical Guide to Sports Injuries. Human Kinetics: Champaign, IL

Finger Collateral Ligament Injury | Steven Lee, MD

Description:

In each of the fingers (index, middle, ring and pinky) there are three joints called the distal interphalangeal (DIP), proximal interphalangeal (PIP), and metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint. The thumb has two joints, the interphalangeal (IP) and MCP joint. ​ Collateral ligaments are like leather bands of strong tissue connecting the bones in each of those joints that help to stabilize the joint throughout movement.  

​

Injury to the collateral ligament occurs when there is a force in a direction different from the normal motion of the joint that is large enough to tear the ligament.  This is most commonly caused by a fall onto an outstretched hand, a finger getting caught on something, or a dog leash wrapped around a finger that gets pulled.   Patients often self-diagnose themselves with a “jammed finger.” Extreme trauma can actually cause the joint to dislocate.  

​

Symptoms:

Patients with collateral ligament injuries of the finger may experience pain and tenderness on the side of the finger joint.  A feeling of  instability may be present when opening and closing the fingers and pinching objects.  In addition, patients may notice swelling or bruising at the affected area.

​

Testing:

Initial evaluation of the injury starts with a physical exam of the fingers in order to assess for ligament instability or laxity. Provocative testing of the ligament will be performed by applying stress to the ligament at the involved joint(s) of the affected finger and comparing it to the unaffected finger.   An assessment is made to determine whether the ligament is sprained (stretched or partially torn) or if it’s completely torn.  This is based on the degree of gapping or instability. 

An x-ray will typically be ordered to rule out a fracture.  

Treatment Options:

​When determining treatment for this type of injury, a variety of important factors are considered. These include the classification of the injury, the degree of the tear, the specific joint and finger of the injured ligament, and the presence of a fracture.

Most collateral ligament injuries may be treated with nonsurgical management.  Patients who have relatively stable joints are typically treated with consistent buddy taping of the finger to provide support and stabilization while maintaining joint mobility.  Buddy taping involves taping or strapping the injured finger above and below the affected ligament to an adjacent finger, thereby providing a “buddy system.”  Unstable joints may be treated with splinting followed by buddy taping.  

​

Hand/physical therapy is often gradually initiated in order to allow the ligament to properly heal.  Hand/physical therapy is vitals towards reducing stiffness and regaining mobility and strength.  Unfortunately, collateral ligament injuries tend to take an extended period of time to heal, usually no less than 6 weeks, and often up to several months.  

​

Surgical Treatment:

Surgery may be recommended depending on the location of the ligament tear,  the presence of a displaced avulsion fracture, or if nonsurgical management is unsuccessful. Surgery is often indicated for complete tears to the collateral ligament of the index finger given the ligament plays an important role in finger pinch. Repair of the ligament involves making a small incision over the affected ligament and using suture and anchors to secure the ligament into a proper position.  If there is a displaced avulsion fracture, surgery may be considered to realign the avulsed fragment of bone and fix it back into proper position with a small screw.  

​

Dr. Steven Lee has revolutionized the treatment of ligament tears and collateral ligament tears specifically with his pioneering of Internal Bracing of the Hand.  Internal bracing utilizes an innovative strong suture tape construct with new bone anchors in order to increase the strength of the repair or reconstruction, thereby significantly quickening the rehabilitation process, and allow earlier return to sports and daily function.  Please feel free to ask Dr. Lee about his specific expertise with this method.  Learn more about Internal Bracing here.

​

As in the non-operative treatment of these injuries, the recovery period after surgery can be unusually prolonged, and can take at least 3 months to heal.  Swelling may be present for much longer, and to a certain extent, may always be there whether surgery was performed or not.

Learn more about scheduling surgery.

Recovery Expectations:

After surgery, patients will usually be placed into a finger splint on the affected finger, with an adjacent finger included, for additional support. Patients usually follow up in office 7-10 days after surgery for a wound check and if there are stitches, to check if they are ready for removal.

Depending on the extent of surgery performed, patients will continue to be splinted for up to 3 – 6 weeks. After this period of immobilization, to allow for healing, patients are usually transitioned to buddy taping and initiated on a course of gradual hand/occupational therapy to restore mobility to the fingers.

​

Immediate Post-Operative Instructions

​

Please refer to the following pages for more information:

• What should I expect after surgery? 

• What foods or supplements should I have after surgery?

​

​

​

​

*It is important to note that all of the information above is not specific to anyone and is subject to change based on many different factors including but not limited to individual patient, diagnosis, and treatment specific variables.  It is provided as an educational service and is not intended to serve as medical advice.  Anyone seeking specific orthopedic advice or assistance should consult Dr. Steven Lee or an orthopedic specialist of your choice.

​

*Dr. Steven Lee is a board certified orthopedic surgeon and is double fellowship trained in the areas of Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery, and Sports Medicine. He has offices in New York City and Scarsdale.

Finger tendon rupture: treatment and symptoms

Why is a finger tendon rupture dangerous? The mobility of the hand is provided by the coordinated work of the flexors and extensors. The first are on the palmar surface of the hand, the second – on its back side. Fingers do not have muscles, so their movements are carried out through connective tissues. Flexors can be superficial or deep. Some of them are on the middle phalanges, others are on the nails. Tendon injuries occupy the first place among the injuries of the hands and fingers. About 30% of them are accompanied by complete or partial tendon ruptures. This is due to the special arrangement of tissues, which makes them easy to damage.

Classification

Injuries to the ligaments of the thumb reduce the functionality of the hand by 50%, the index and middle – by 20%. They are most common among people who prefer amateur sports activities. Depending on the presence of skin damage, tendon ruptures are divided into open and closed. The first occur when injured with piercing-cutting objects. The latter are diagnosed in athletes. The tendon is damaged when it is overstretched.

Tears are divided into partial and complete, the severity of the injury is assigned depending on the number of torn fibers. Total damage is more difficult to cure. Rupture of one ligament is considered isolated, several – multiple. We are talking about a combined injury in case of damage to muscle tissues, blood vessels and nerve endings.

When prescribing treatment, it is important to determine the age of the injury. A subcutaneous rupture that occurred less than 3 days ago is considered fresh. Injuries that occurred more than 3 days ago are called stale. Those that happened 21 or more days ago are old.

Common causes of injury

Tendon and joint capsule injuries can be traumatic or degenerative in origin. The latter type is the result of tissue thinning, the first occurs with a sharp rise in weight. Sports injury can have a mixed origin.

Provoking factors are:

• a short break between workouts;
• lack of warm-up during class;
• reassessment of one’s capabilities;
• non-compliance with safety regulations.

The risk group includes people who are overweight and the elderly.

Characteristic signs

Symptoms of finger ligament rupture are determined by its localization. Damage to the tissues located on the anterior surface of the hand is accompanied by a violation of flexion functions. In this case, the fingers acquire an overbent position. When the tendons of the back of the hand are injured, extensor abilities suffer. Damage to the nerve endings can lead to numbness and paresthesia. If at least one of the symptoms listed above appears, you should consult a doctor. Fresh injuries heal faster than old ones.

If a person notices that the function of the hand is seriously impaired, they should apply a sterile dressing and a cold compress. This prevents hemorrhage and the development of swelling. The limb must be raised above the head, this will slow down the speed of blood flow.

In the emergency room, the initial treatment of the wound is carried out, including the application of antiseptic solutions to the skin, stopping bleeding and suturing. After that, a tetanus toxoid vaccine is given and antibacterial drugs are administered. If a rupture of the extensor tendon of the finger is detected, the patient is sent to the surgeon. Without the operation, the brush may lose its function.

Therapeutic measures

Injuries of the extensor tendons can be treated not only surgically, but also conservatively. However, this does not apply to flexor injury. In case of finger injuries, long-term wearing of a cast or other fixing device is indicated.

Injuries occurring in the area of ​​the wrist are treated exclusively with surgery. The ends of the torn ligament are sewn together. If the damaged tissues are located in the area of ​​the distal interphalangeal joint, the splint is applied for 5–6 weeks.

Faster recovery of finger functions is observed after the extensor tendon suture operation.

A post-surgery fixation device is required to keep the joint in an extended position. You will have to wear it for at least 3 weeks. The splint must be worn on the finger at all times. Its early removal can contribute to the rupture of the scar that has begun to form, as a result of which the nail phalanx will again assume a bent position. In such cases, repeated splinting is indicated. During the treatment period, it is recommended to be under medical supervision.

In boutonniere-type deformity, the joint is fixed in a straight position until the damaged tissues are completely healed. The suture is necessary for reduction and complete rupture of the tendon. In the absence of treatment or improper splinting, the finger assumes a bent state and freezes in this position. It is necessary to follow all the instructions of the traumatologist and wear a splint for at least 2 months. The doctor will tell you exactly when it will be possible to remove it.

An extensor tendon rupture at the level of the metacarpal, carpal joint, and forearm requires surgery. Spontaneous muscle contraction leads to a tightening of the tendons and a significant divergence of the damaged fibers.

The operation is performed under local anesthesia. First, the bleeding is stopped, after which the torn ligament is sutured to the distal phalanx. If the injury is accompanied by a fracture, the bone fragment is fixed with a screw. The needle in the finger plays the role of a retainer.

Sutures and a tight cast or plastic splint are then applied. Postoperative immobilization helps avoid rupture of the repaired tendon.

Surgical intervention is performed on an outpatient basis, after its completion the patient can recover home.

Recovery period

Rehabilitation for finger flexor tendon rupture includes:

• massage;
• LFK;
• taking medications.

Rubbing accelerates the process of repairing damaged tissues, increases their strength. The ligament must be worked out with the fingertips, the load must be increased gradually. Movements are carried out along the damaged section of the tendon. Massage can be started only after the completion of the stage of inflammation. The procedure should not last more than 10 minutes.

Finger development is an important part of rehabilitation. It enhances blood circulation and tissue nutrition. You need to squeeze your hand and hold it in this position for 10 seconds. After that, the fingers are unbent as far as possible and fixed in this position for 30 seconds.

You can not stretch the tendon abruptly, you can do the exercises as often as you like. Do not forget that classes should be regular.

In some cases, anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed after splinting. However, the inhibition of the inflammatory process can interfere with the normal healing of tissues, which will lead to dysfunction of the hand.

If the pain syndrome does not disappear, it is necessary to stop exercise therapy until the condition of the ligament improves.

Watch this video on YouTube

How long does it take for a tendon rupture to heal? With minor injuries, recovery takes no more than a month. With a complete break, this period can last up to six months.

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Daniel Fuertes repeats the route “Apocalipsis de la Gioconda” and lowers the category

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active 42-English Spanish language – 6 routes in category 9a+ ​​and one route in category 9b, to put yoga on the 20th day of the middle of the most productive skelelas in the world.