Here's a picture of a lacerated DIP tendon (tendon that causes the latter part of the finger to extend and stay extended).
Here's my finger.
When the extensor tendon (or sometimes even the bone) tears the flexor tendons (the ones on the bottom) are still flexing the finger but there is no force on top to counteract this so the finger droops.
My finger doesn't function well. I can hardly pick things up, type, or properly hold a glass. Plus, it hurts a little to try to extend it and I don't like looking at it. And, unfortunately, I can't extend it at all!
This is called a mallet finger injury.
So the doctor gave me a splint--or a small, rigid object secured with tape, to keep the finger hyperextended and straight so it can heal properly. Here's my splint!
No, I'm not giving YOU the finger. lol
I have to go to a hand surgeon to confirm it's not a serious tear that requires surgery.
Well, at least my nails look good!
I hope your finger is healing nicely. I have enjoyed reading your blog today. I broke my little finger at work last week and have to have surgery tomorrow to fix it. It is such a bummer!!
ReplyDeleteI have a question for you and your other OT buddies to think about and maybe help me with. I need to come up with some sort of adaptive equipment that can be used to hold a sewing needle. I have a group of ladies who get together in Karachi, Pakistan to do sewing, hair styling, make-up, and henna application for weddings etc.. Several of the ladies have hand issues and need help holding the sewing needle. Are there any things that can help? I have looked and have not found anything yet.
Thanks for your help,
Emily
Look me up on Facebook if you want....Emily Palmer Rice :)