Mallet finger, often referred to as ”’baseball finger,” is a common injury that affects the tendons responsible for straightening in the end joint of a finger. It can occur due to a forceful impact to the fingertip, causing the tendon to tear or the bone to fracture.
Today, we will explore what mallet finger is, its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and up to 5 products that can help make life easier at home.
What is Mallet Finger?
Mallet finger is a condition where the outermost joint of a finger cannot be straightened voluntarily, often leaving it bent. This injury typically occurs when an object strikes the tip of the finger or thumb, forcibly bending it. It’s commonly seen in sports like basketball or baseball but can also result from everyday activities.
Causes of Mallet Finger
The primary cause of mallet finger is trauma to the fingertip, leading to:
- Tendon rupture: The extensor tendon responsible for straightening the finger tears.
- Bone fracture: The force of the impact can break the bone where the tendon attaches.
Symptoms of Mallet Finger
The symptoms of mallet finger are usually quite noticeable and include:
- Inability to strengthen the fingertip without assistance.
- Pain and swelling at the top of the finger.
- Bruising or redness.
- Drooping fingertip that cannot be straightened.
Treatments for Mallet Finger
Treatment for mallet finger depends on the severity of the injury and may involve non-surgical or surgical methods.
Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Splinting: The most common treatment involves wearing a splint that keeps the fingertip straight and immobilised for about 6-8 weeks. This allows the tendon or bone to heal properly.
- RICE Method: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation can help manage pain and swelling in the initial stages.
- Physical Therapy: Once the splint is removed, exercises to strengthen and improve flexibility in the finger may be recommended.
Surgical Treatments:
In cases where the tendon has significantly retracted or there’s a large fracture, surgery may be necessary to repair the tendon or pin the bone fragments together.
Top 6 Products to Help at Home
Living with mallet finger can be challenging, but the right products can make daily tasks easier and aid in recovery.
1. Finger Splints:
- Oval-8 Finger Splint: A Lightweight, waterproof splint that can be worn while performing daily activities. It’s designed to immobilize the fingertip, allowing for proper healing.
2. Ergonomic Keyboard and Mouse:
- Logitech Ergo K860: The splint keyboard reduces strain on the fingers and hands, making typing more comfortable during recovery.
- Anker Vertical Ergonomic: Designed to minimise wrist and finger strain, making computer use less painful.
3. Grip Strengthener:
- Theraband Hand Exerciser: A flexible gel ball that can help maintain grip strength and improve finger flexibility as you recover.
4. Adaptive Utensils:
- Good Grips Weighted Utensils: These utensils have larger, weighted handles that are easier to grip, reducing strain on the injured finger while eating.
5. Ergonomic Kettle:
- Uccello Kettle: Featuring a tilt-to-pour design, this kettle minimises the need for a strong grip and complex wrist movements, making it easier and safer to handle hot water with an injured finger.
6. Compression Gloves:
- IMAK Arthritis Gloves: While primarily designed for arthritis, these gloves provide gentle compression and support, which can help with pain and swelling.
Mallet finger, though common, can significantly impact daily life. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for effective management. With the right products, you can ease the burden of this injury and facilitate a smoother recovery process. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalised advice and treatment plans.
By incorporating these helpful home products into your routine, you can manage your mallet finger more effectively and get back to your normal activities sooner.
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