mallet finger
Injury causing inability to extend the DIP joint due to extensor tendon rupture or avulsion fracture.
Full Definition
Mallet finger is a common hand injury characterized by loss of active extension at the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint, resulting in a characteristic drooping posture of the fingertip. The injury involves either rupture of the extensor digitorum tendon at its insertion or an avulsion fracture of the dorsal base of the distal phalanx. Mallet finger typically occurs from forced flexion of an extended finger, such as when a ball strikes the fingertip. The condition results in an extensor lag at the DIP joint, with the finger assuming a flexed position that cannot be actively corrected. Treatment usually involves continuous splinting in extension for 6-8 weeks.
Usage
Usage note: Also called baseball finger; distinguished from jersey finger which affects flexion
In Context
- "The patient presented with mallet finger deformity following a basketball injury to the index finger." — Emergency department evaluation
- "Conservative management with continuous DIP extension splinting was initiated for the mallet finger." — Hand therapy referral