Elbow, Wrist and Hand

Mallet Finger Physiotherapy in Indirapuram

Mallet finger is when the tip of a finger droops and you can't straighten it, usually after a ball hits the end of the finger. The fix is simple but demanding: continuous splinting, without a break, for several weeks.

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How it happens

The extensor tendon that straightens the fingertip attaches to the last bone of the finger. A sudden force that bends the tip, such as a cricket ball catching the end of the finger or jamming it while tucking in a bedsheet, can tear the tendon or pull off a small piece of bone with it.

The fingertip then sits bent. It can still be pushed straight with the other hand, but it won't straighten on its own.

Treatment is mostly about the splint

Most mallet fingers are treated with a splint that holds the fingertip straight or slightly overextended. The key word is continuously. The splint stays on for around six to eight weeks, day and night, including while washing. If the tip is allowed to bend even once during this time, the healing tendon can be stretched and the clock resets.

We teach you how to change or clean the splint while keeping the fingertip supported on a flat surface. Checking the skin under the splint matters, as pressure sores can develop.

After splinting

When the splint comes off, the finger is gradually weaned, often with night splinting for a further few weeks. Gentle bending exercises are introduced step by step. Some slight droop may remain, but function is usually good.

Surgery is considered for large bone fragments, joint subluxation, or when splinting fails.

Exercises often used for Mallet Finger

These are exercises our physiotherapists commonly include. Which ones suit you, how many and in what order depends on your assessment and stage of recovery.

Finger Flexion and ExtensionBending and straightening the fingers fully. Prevents stiffness after hand injuries.

All elbow, wrist and hand exercises

Medical note

This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Treatment is planned after an in-person assessment by a physiotherapist, and we refer you to a doctor where symptoms need medical review first. If you have sudden weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, chest pain or severe unexplained pain, seek emergency care.

Frequently asked questions

Can I remove the splint for a shower?

Not unless the fingertip is kept straight on a flat surface. Any bending can undo healing.

What if I've had it for weeks?

Splinting can still help even if started late, though results may be less complete.

Will the finger look normal again?

Most recover good function. A slight droop sometimes remains.

What is Mallet Finger?

Mallet finger is a drooping fingertip that cannot straighten, caused by injury to the tendon at the end joint.

What causes Mallet Finger?

Common causes include a ball or object striking the fingertip, bending it forcefully.

What are the common symptoms of Mallet Finger?

Common symptoms include the tip of the finger droops, with pain and swelling at the end joint.

How is Mallet Finger diagnosed?

Clinical examination and X-ray to check for a bone fragment.

Can physiotherapy help with Mallet Finger?

Yes. Correct splinting for 6 to 8 weeks is key, followed by physiotherapy to restore movement. Our joint pain physiotherapy programme is built around this.

What are the goals of physiotherapy for Mallet Finger?

To protect the healing tendon, then regain movement and strength.

What treatments may be used for Mallet Finger?

Treatment centres on a tailored exercise programme, supported by paraffin wax therapy and hands-on treatment where they help.

Related treatments

Joints

Ready to feel better?

Book an assessment at our Indirapuram clinic or ask for a home visit. Call +91-9999973681 or send a WhatsApp message and we will confirm your slot.