Wrist + Hand

Finger Issues

Boutonnière Deformity

Boutonnière deformity is the result of an injury to the tendons that straightens the middle joint of your finger. The result is that the middle joint of the injured finger will not straighten, while the fingertip bends back. Unless this injury is treated promptly, the deformity may progress resulting in permanent deformity and impaired functioning. While nonsurgical treatment of boutonnière deformity is preferred, surgery is an option in certain cases.

Learn more about Boutonniere deformity.

Dupuytren's Disease

This is a disorder of thickened ligament in the palm resulting in nodules on the ligament which, if severe enough, can cause an inability to fully straighten the fingers. The ring and small fingers are most commonly affected. The cause of this disorder is unknown. It is seen more commonly in men and is usually found in individuals of Northern European descent. If deformity is mild and there is no functional loss, no surgery is needed. If, however, there is significant contracture that interferes with full use of the hand, surgical removal of a portion of the ligament is the treatment of choice to improve function and to prevent further deformity.

Learn more about Dupuytren's disease.

Fingertip Injuries & Amputations

Fingertip injuries can occur in accidents at home, work, or play. An injury can involve a sharp cut, a crushing injury, a tearing injury, or a combination of these injury types. Your fingertips are rich with nerves and are extremely sensitive. Without prompt and proper treatment, a fingertip injury can cause problems with hand function, and may even result in permanent deformity or disability. To ensure the best outcome, it is important to have your doctor examine your finger or thumb after an injury.

Learn more about finger tip injuries.

Mallet Finger (Baseball Finger)

Mallet finger is an injury to the thin tendon that straightens the end joint of a finger or thumb. Although it is also known as "baseball finger," this injury can happen to anyone when an unyielding object strikes the tip of a finger or thumb and forces it to bend further than it is intended to go. As a result, you are not able to straighten the tip of your finger or thumb on your own. Mallet finger injuries that are not treated typically result in stiffness and deformity of the injured fingertip. The majority of mallet finger injuries can be treated without surgery.

Learn more about mallet finger.

Trigger Finger

The tendons of the thumb and each of the fingers pass through a sheath on the palm side of the hand. Certain diseases and overused activities can cause a thickening of this sheath. As the tendon passes through a thickened sheath, the tendon eventually becomes irritated and swells. Pain, catching, and, eventually, locking of the finger will occur. Early treatment consists of anti-inflammatory medication or cortisone injections. If these fail to provide relief, the sheath is opened surgically through a small incision at the base of the finger.

Learn more about trigger finger.

OakLeaf Episodes of Care

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