Some common injuries that benefit from splint wear are: tendonitis of the wrist or elbow, broken finger, ligament tear post repair, tendon rupture post repair (Figure 1), and post cast removal of a broken wrist or elbow (Figure 2).

There are two common sports-related finger injuries: mallet finger and boutonniere deformity. Both can benefit from splint wear.

What is a mallet finger?

A mallet finger occurs when there is an interruption in the extensor tendon of the fingertip, resulting in the inability to straighten the fingertip (Figure 3). This can occur if a ball jams the fingertip with a lot of force. Figure 4 is a common splint for treatment.

What is a boutonniere deformity?

A boutonniere deformity occurs when there is an injury to the extensor mechanism of the finger, and the middle part of the finger becomes flexed and the fingertip hyperextends (Figure 5). Figure 6 is a silver ring splint to aid in the return of normal finger positioning.

Occupational therapy treatment in addition to splinting can assist in recovering the function of the hand, wrist, or elbow as the injury heals so that the individual can return to meaningful daily activity, including sports.

Want to learn more? The Queen's Center for Sports Medicine provides comprehensive care for the treatment and prevention of sports injuries and conditions in athletes and active people of all ages.  For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call 808-691-4449 or click the button below.

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Figure 1. https://ssl.cdn.ncmedical.com/items/fullsize/1241205694_NC12357_LG.jpg
Figure 2. https://ssl.cdn.ncmedical.com/items/fullsize/2009_06_18_12_34_39__10_NC33900A_LG.jpg
Figure 3. http://www.nasserhyder.co.uk/images/mallet-finger.jpg
Figure 4. https://www.alimed.com/_resources/cache/images/product/53301_1000x1000-pad.jpg
Figure 5. My hand simulating boutonnière deformity.
Figure 6. https://ssl.cdn.ncmedical.com/items/fullsize/2009_11_16_16_02_49__13_NC16141_LG.jpg