Mallet Finger

This leaflet has been developed to supplement the information you have already been given by the Nurse or Doctor. 

You have snapped the tendon that normally straightens the end joint of the finger. The tendon may even pull off a small piece of bone. 

This causes the tip of the finger to lie in a bent position and you are unable to straighten it. 

A splint will be applied and you should wear it all the time, even at night, to keep the tip of your finger straight for 8 weeks (6 weeks if bony fragment). You need to move the middle joint. 

At the end of this time wear your splint for one month at night and whenever your finger may be at risk of injury. During this time it is important to support your finger tip in a straight position even when taking the splint off to wash. 

This can be done by placing your hand flat on a table, removing the splint and cleaning the finger tip. 

Try to limit washing your finger as little as possible to reduce the chance of your finger bending. Initially aim to clean your finger twice a week. 

It is important to keep your finger and splint dry to avoid skin irritation. 

Most injuries heal without any problems, however it may take several months to regain full function. 

After the splint has stopped being used (around 10-12 weeks) it is important to keep gently moving your finger and gradually resume daily activities as comfort allows. This will help improve any stiffness and ensure the safest return to normal function. 

If you are struggling to get your movement back please contact the hand clinic (number on next page). 

PAIN RELIEF and COMFORT 

You may have redness, swelling and slight pain over the fingertip for a few months afterwards. This will settle. You can elevate your hand when sitting to relieve any swelling. 

You can take pain relief such as Paracetamol and/or Ibuprofen. Your local chemist can also give you advise. 

You may be left with a small bump or be unable to straighten the finger fully. If this happens it is unfortunately a permanent feature but this will not affect the use of your finger. 

Occasionally after 3 months of splint treatment the tendon may fail to heal. 

Most fingers function well despite a droop at the end joint however surgical fusion of the end joint may be considered.

GETTING BACK TO NORMAL

You can self certify for one week. The A & E Practitioner will advise you on time scales for return to work. 

WORRIES OR CONCERNS

Should you have any worries or concerns following discharge from hospital, please contact: 

1) Hand Clinic at Queen Margaret Hospital on 01383 623623 Ext 22441 

2) For urgent problems or concerns out with working hours please contact NHS 24 on 111.