Mallet Finger |
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DESCRIPTION
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A mallet finger (also called a jammed finger) occurs when the tendon in the finger is stretched or torn, or the bone attached to the tendon is broken off. (Tendons are the tissues that connect muscle to bone.) It may take from 4 to 8 weeks for the injury to heal.
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CAUSES
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Jamming the end of the finger against an object or hitting it on something is the usual cause. The injury often results when a ball hits the end of a straight finger.
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SYMPTOMS
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Swelling, pain, and redness of the injured area are typical signs. You will also have difficulty moving the finger. The fingertip often will droop.
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CARE
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You may need to have your finger x-rayed; and you will probably need to wear a splint to prevent the finger from moving while it heals. Surgery is sometimes necessary.
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