Mallet finger, also known as Baseball finger is the dropped tip of the finger joint. Dr. Sumit Badhwar performs one of the best mallet finger treatment in Noida at his bone and joint clinic. Mallet finger mostly occurs due to trauma to the tip of the finger which results in the bending of the upper finger joint more than usual. The index finger is least likely to get affected, other fingers such as middle, long and ring finger are mostly affected. Either the tendon breaks or it takes away a chip of bone with it. If the chip of bone is taken away, it is known as an avulsion fracture. It is common in adults, children and old women, however, the causing force may be different depending upon the strength and age of the person. This article explains the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of mallet finger in Noida by Dr. Sumit Badhwar. 

Symptoms of Mallet Finger 

• Painful Finger
• Redness and swelling 
• Bruising and Tenderness
• Inability to straighten the finger from the top joint
• Droopy tip of the finger 

How the Diagnosis of Mallet finger is made?

• Physical Examination – The orthopedic doctor performs a mallet finger test to find out the strength in the tendon. After which the diagnosis is made based on the physical examination.
• X-ray – An x-ray is advised to find out any chip-off fracture or any other injury to the bone which then changes the treatment protocol.
• MRI or Ultrasound – They are not commonly needed unless there is a doubt of any associated injury, fracture or nerve entrapment. 

Treatment of Mallet Finger in Noida 

• First Aid – First aid is very important in terms of healing the joint quickly. The icing on the injured site and elevating the finger above your heart is recommended to release the swelling and redness. 
• Medications – NSAIDs or Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs are given to the patient to decrease the inner inflammation on the tendons. 
• Importance of Splinting – The splint serves as the main treatment protocol in the non-surgical treatment of mallet finger. A plastic-based, metallic or velcro splint is given to the patient which must be worn for at least 8 weeks. Whenever the splint is removed (such as after bathing) the finger must remain in the straight position till you dry it out. If the proper splinting schedule is not followed then the time of splinting increases. After 8 weeks, the splint is used at night only. Muscle strengthening exercises are advised to the patient after the healing is done. 
• Surgical Treatment – When the bones are not aligned properly, then the surgical fixation is needed. The finger bones are then fixed with wire or joint fusion is performed as per the extent of the injury. Surgery is also performed when a tendon-graft is required. Surgical treatment is commonly not required and the mallet finger heals well with the medications and splinting. 

However, if the treatment is delayed or if the mallet finger is left untreated, then the swan neck deformity can develop. In children, the complication of non-treatment of mallet finger is the stunted growth of finger joints if treatment is delayed. If you want to book an appointment with the best orthopedic doctor in Noida, you can book an appointment here, or you can walk in our clinic as well.