HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

What Causes Stiffness Of Finger After Removing Splint Of Mallet Finger?

default
Posted on Mon, 23 Mar 2015
Question: I had mallet finger and removed the splint 3 weeks ago after being in the splint of 8 weeks. I had it x rayed and they did not see a break. I can not bend my finger all the way. It is extremely stiff. I am trying to force the finger to bend daily. I can not bend from the second joint. Is this normal and what other exercises other than stress balls and just trying to force the bend would you recommend. I can wiggle the finger but is is still swollen and can only bend it about 25 to 30%. What do you think? Thanks in advance.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma (11 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
It will take some time

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I have studied your case. Finger joints become stiff very soon. Usually in Mallet finger, 2 week immobilization is sufficient. I think you kept it in splint for little long.
Now it can take up to one to two more month for finger to get full range of motion. You should continue to work on with ball and forcefully moving it.
Also I would recommend you to use a cloth and keep it in warm water and squeeze it.
Swelling in finger is going to stay for at least 6 months. There is no need to be worried about that. 
I hope this answer will be helpful for you. Let me know if there is any other follow up questions.
Thanks.
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma

Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement

Practicing since :2002

Answered : 4486 Questions

Ask me a question
premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Ask an Orthopaedic Surgeon
Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
backtotop2
What Causes Stiffness Of Finger After Removing Splint Of Mallet Finger?

Brief Answer: It will take some time Detailed Answer: Hello, I have studied your case. Finger joints become stiff very soon. Usually in Mallet finger, 2 week immobilization is sufficient. I think you kept it in splint for little long. Now it can take up to one to two more month for finger to get full range of motion. You should continue to work on with ball and forcefully moving it. Also I would recommend you to use a cloth and keep it in warm water and squeeze it. Swelling in finger is going to stay for at least 6 months. There is no need to be worried about that.  I hope this answer will be helpful for you. Let me know if there is any other follow up questions. Thanks.