Mallet finger is a bent fingertip. It is caused by a fractured bone or torn tendon at the base of the finger joint near the fingertip. The injury can happen when your child's finger is bent with force, such as when trying to catch a ball and the fingertip is struck by the ball. It also is called baseball finger or drop finger.
Treatment includes wearing a splint for several weeks to keep the finger straight. Surgery may be needed if pieces of bone break off during the injury or if treatment with the splint does not work. Usually only a splint is needed.
It is very important for your child to wear and take care of the splint exactly as your doctor says so that the finger heals properly and is no longer bent. Wearing a splint may interfere with your child's normal activities. Have your child ask for help with daily tasks if needed.
Mallet finger (also called baseball finger or drop finger) is a bent fingertip that can't be straightened. It is caused by a ruptured tendon at the base of the finger joint near the fingertip that occurs when a finger is bent with force, such as when you try to catch a ball and your fingertip is struck by the ball.
Symptoms of mallet finger include a:
Treatment includes splinting the injured finger in a straight position for several weeks.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
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