Baseball Finger
Overview
Causes
The most common cause is when the tip of a finger is forcibly flexed or hit against a solid object, such as a ball. This causes the tendon to be torn and unable to fully extend the top of the finger or thumb.
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
Problems may be:
- Pain and swelling in the tip of the finger or thumb
- Problems extending the finger or thumb
Treatments
Treatment
It will take 6 to 8 weeks for most people to heal. The finger or thumb may always droop a little after the tendon heals. It should not affect function. The goals of treatment are to ease pain and swelling. This may include:
- Medicine to ease pain and swelling
- A splint to prevent the finger or thumb from moving as it heals
- Exercises to help with strength, flexibility, and range of motion
Surgery
Some people may need surgery when other methods do not help the tendon. This is not common. It may be done to by taking a tendon from another place in the body and putting it in the finger. The joint can also be fused in a straight position.
People who have a fracture may need surgery. It is done using pins to hold the pieces of bone together as they heal.
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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