Deformed Left Ring Finger: Causes, Treatment Options, and Recovery

Deformation of the left ring finger?

Hello, doctor! When I was in the second year of junior high school (14 years old), I injured my left ring finger while playing basketball.
At that time, my entire finger was swollen and I couldn't bend it.
I immediately went to the orthopedic department of the hospital, where they used a splint to immobilize the injured area for two weeks.
After the splint was removed, the area was still swollen.
Now I am in my fourth year of college (22 years old) and I play the piano.
My left ring finger has become increasingly bent (like a hammer finger), so I went to see a doctor again last December.
The doctor said that I had a tendon rupture, and I could only use a splint to correct it and prevent my finger from bending further.
I would like to ask the doctor, did I really rupture the tendon in my finger? If it is indeed a tendon rupture, is there still a possibility for treatment? Since I play the piano, my left ring finger starts to hurt after playing for a while...
Is there a way to improve this? Is surgery an option? My fingers are really important to me!

Chen Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/03

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Surgery can be considered after the physician's evaluation.
If the tendon rupture occurred recently, it may be treated with immobilization.

Reply Date: 2016/11/03

More Info

Deformed fingers, especially after an injury like the one you described, can be a significant concern, particularly for someone who plays an instrument like the piano. The condition you're experiencing with your left ring finger, which has become increasingly bent over time, is likely due to a combination of factors stemming from your initial injury and the subsequent treatment.

When you initially injured your finger at the age of 14, the swelling and inability to bend the finger indicated a significant trauma. The use of an aluminum splint for two weeks was a common approach to stabilize the injury. However, if the finger remained swollen and did not regain its normal range of motion after the splint was removed, it suggests that there may have been more severe damage than initially assessed. This could include tendon injuries, which are crucial for finger movement.

The diagnosis of a ruptured tendon, as mentioned by your doctor, is a serious condition. Tendons are the fibrous tissues that connect muscles to bones, and if they are torn or ruptured, it can lead to a loss of function in the affected finger. In your case, the bent appearance of your finger resembles a condition known as "mallet finger," where the tendon that straightens the finger is damaged. This can lead to a permanent flexion deformity if not treated appropriately.

Regarding treatment options, there are several paths you can consider:
1. Conservative Management: This includes the use of splints or orthotic devices to hold the finger in a straight position. While this may help prevent further deformity, it might not restore full function or appearance.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in a rehabilitation program can help improve the range of motion and strength in your finger. A physical therapist can guide you through exercises tailored to your specific needs, which may help alleviate some discomfort while playing the piano.

3. Surgical Intervention: If the tendon is indeed ruptured, surgical repair may be necessary. Surgery can involve reattaching the tendon or reconstructing it, depending on the extent of the injury. Post-surgery, a rehabilitation program will be crucial to regain function and flexibility.

4. Pain Management: Since you mentioned experiencing pain while playing the piano, it may be beneficial to explore pain management strategies. This could include over-the-counter pain relief, ice therapy, or even corticosteroid injections if inflammation is present.

5. Consultation with a Hand Specialist: Given the complexity of your injury and its impact on your daily life, consulting with a hand surgeon or a specialist in musculoskeletal injuries would be advisable. They can provide a thorough evaluation and discuss the best treatment options tailored to your situation.

In conclusion, while the injury you sustained at a young age has led to significant changes in your finger's structure and function, there are still options available to improve your condition. Early intervention is key, so seeking a specialist's opinion sooner rather than later can help you regain as much function as possible. Remember, fingers are essential for many activities, including playing the piano, and addressing this issue can greatly enhance your quality of life and musical performance.

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