Baseball Finger

Mallet finger

Normal Abnormal Baseball finger, also called mallet finger, is a finger injury characterized by the inability to extend the finger. (the tip of the finger cannot be straightened out).  A tendon rupture is commonly seen.  In severe cases, fractures or subluxations can occur.

Mallet finger is caused by a sudden blow to the tip of the finger.  The common cause is a direct injury from a batted ball during a sports activity. The Patient is unable to fully straighten out the tip of the injured finger.  Pain and swelling is present.

A diagnosis is made by a history of injuries and physical examinations.  X-Rays should be done to diagnose the presence of the fracture or subluxation.

Apply ice and elevate the hand immediately after the injury The treatment is to splint the finger for several weeks with the injured finger fully extended.  If the fracture is large, surgical repair is necessary.

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