Can Mallet Finger Heal Without A Splint? The Truth You Need To Know

Mallet finger is a condition where the extensor tendon that straightens the tip of the finger is injured. This can happen from a direct blow to the fingertip, such as when a ball hits it or when someone jams their finger in a door.

The traditional treatment for mallet finger is to wear a splint to keep the finger straight while the tendon heals. However, there is some evidence to suggest that mallet finger can heal without a splint, especially if the injury is mild.

Factors That Affect Healing Without a Splint

The following factors can affect whether or not mallet finger can heal without a splint:

• The severity of the injury: Mild mallet finger injuries are more likely to heal without a splint than severe injuries.
• The location of the injury: Injuries to the extensor tendon near the fingertip are more likely to heal without a splint than injuries to the tendon further down the finger.
• The patient’s age: Children and adolescents are more likely to heal mallet finger without a splint than adults.
• The patient’s activity level: Patients who are active and use their hands a lot are less likely to heal mallet finger without a splint.

Benefits of Healing Without a Splint

There are several benefits to healing mallet finger without a splint, including:

• Improved range of motion: A splint can restrict the range of motion in the finger, which can make it difficult to perform everyday activities.
• Reduced pain: A splint can put pressure on the injured tendon, which can cause pain.
• Faster healing time: Some studies have shown that mallet finger can heal faster without a splint.

Risks of Healing Without a Splint

There are also some risks associated with healing mallet finger without a splint, including:

• Re-injury: If the finger is not properly protected, it can be re-injured, which can delay healing.
• Deformity: If the finger is not kept straight while it heals, it can develop a deformity.
• Loss of function: In severe cases, mallet finger can lead to loss of function in the finger.

When to See a Doctor

It is important to see a doctor if you have mallet finger, even if you think it is a mild injury. The doctor can assess the severity of the injury and recommend the best course of treatment.

Treatment Options

The treatment for mallet finger depends on the severity of the injury. Mild injuries may be treated with a splint, while more severe injuries may require surgery.

Splint Therapy

Splint therapy is the most common treatment for mallet finger. A splint is a device that keeps the finger straight while it heals. Splints are typically worn for 6-8 weeks.

Surgery

Surgery is only necessary in severe cases of mallet finger. Surgery involves repairing the damaged tendon.

Home Care

In addition to the above treatments, there are several things you can do at home to help your mallet finger heal:

• Rest the finger: Avoid using the injured finger as much as possible.
• Ice the finger: Ice the finger for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
• Elevate the finger: Keep the injured finger elevated above your heart to reduce swelling.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation.

Recovery Time

The recovery time for mallet finger varies depending on the severity of the injury. Mild injuries may heal within a few weeks, while more severe injuries may take several months to heal.

Preventing Mallet Finger

There are several things you can do to prevent mallet finger, including:

• Wear gloves when playing sports: Gloves can help to protect your fingers from injury.
• Use proper technique when playing sports: Make sure to use proper technique when playing sports to avoid putting excessive stress on your fingers.
• Avoid jamming your fingers: Be careful not to jam your fingers in doors or other objects.

Questions You May Have

• Can mallet finger heal on its own?

Yes, mallet finger can heal on its own, especially if the injury is mild. However, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any other injuries and to get the best possible care.

• How long does it take for mallet finger to heal without a splint?

The healing time for mallet finger without a splint varies depending on the severity of the injury. Mild injuries may heal within a few weeks, while more severe injuries may take several months to heal.

• What are the risks of healing mallet finger without a splint?

The risks of healing mallet finger without a splint include re-injury, deformity, and loss of function.