How to Identify Signs of Mallet Finger Condition
Mallet finger, also known as baseball finger, is a common condition that occurs when a person experiences a sudden injury to their fingertip. The condition can be excruciatingly painful and requires medical attention. Even though it may seem like a minor injury, ignoring it can lead to serious complications. Mallet finger involves the forced flexion of the distal interphalangeal joint (DIP) and leads to the inability to straighten the affected finger. In this article, we will discuss the common signs of mallet finger, and if you suspect you may have the condition, it is highly recommended to seek medical attention from a reputable orthopedic institute like Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute located in Altamonte Springs, FL.
1. Swelling and redness in the affected finger
The first sign of mallet finger is usually visible swelling and redness in the affected finger. The injury can cause the area around the fingertip to turn red or purple and can result in the finger appearing swollen. In some cases, the swelling may reduce on its own within a few days of the injury, but even if the redness and swelling reduce, it is essential to seek medical attention to ensure proper healing.
2. Inability to straighten the affected finger
If you have experienced an injury to your fingertip and you can't straighten it completely, you may have mallet finger. The finger usually stays in a bent position due to damage to the tendon that controls movement in the DIP joint. If left untreated, the finger can remain in a bent position.
3. Pain or discomfort
Mallet finger can be very painful and uncomfortable, especially when moving the finger. The pain can vary from mild discomfort to severe pain depending on the extent of the injury. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your fingertip, it is essential to seek medical attention to avoid further injury.
4. Tenderness when touching the affected area
When experiencing mallet finger, the entire fingertip may feel tender to the touch. Tenderness around the injury site can be an indication of swelling and inflammation. Tenderness or soreness in the fingertip requires immediate attention as it may lead to more severe symptoms.
5. Deformity of the affected finger
Another sign of mallet finger is the deformity of the affected finger. Mallet finger can result in an unsightly and debilitating deformity of the fingertip. If left untreated, it can lead to a chronic condition known as swan-neck deformity, where the middle joint of the finger is bent and the DIP joint cannot bend properly.
Conclusion
Mallet finger can be a painful and debilitating injury, and seeking medical attention is vital to ensure proper healing and avoid more severe conditions from arising. If you experience any of the above symptoms, contact a reputable insitute of orthopedic surgeons in Altamonte Springs, FL, like Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute. With their state-of-the-art facilities, you are sure to receive the most comprehensive medical care available. Take preventative measures and avoid debilitating injuries by seeking medical attention for any hand or finger injuries.