Jammed finger or mallet finger

Overview

Jamming a finger stretches its ligaments. Mallet finger tears the tendon that straightens the tip.

Mallet finger needs a splint worn all the time to heal straight.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Jammed or bent finger, or can't straighten a fingertip
• Finger pain and swelling

Less common

• Bruising

When to get medical care

Causes

A ball or object hitting the fingertip.

Who is more likely to get it

• Sports

Possible complications

• Broken finger

Diagnosis

A clinician checks the finger.

Questions you may be asked

• How it happened
• Can you straighten the tip?

The exam

Checking motion and alignment.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• X-ray: For a broken bone.

Treatment

Most jammed fingers heal with buddy taping.

Self-care

• Ice and raise the hand
• Buddy tape to the next finger
• For mallet finger: keep the tip straight in a splint at all times

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Surgery is rarely needed.

Prevention

To prevent it:

• Use proper ball-catching technique

Which doctor treats this

• Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
• They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• School or desk work is often OK within days. Jobs with lifting may need light duty for a while.
• Go back to sports only when your doctor says it's OK and you have full motion and strength without pain.

Outlook

Most heal well with proper splinting.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• How long do I wear the splint?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Jammed finger or mallet finger