Rugby finger is a common hand injury that occurs when the flexor tendon in the finger is torn or ruptured. Arunalaya Advanced Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in Patel Nagar, Delhi, provides insights into the causes, diagnosis, and effective physiotherapy management for rugby finger.
Introduction:Rugby finger, also known as jersey finger, is a hand injury commonly seen in athletes, particularly football players. This condition occurs when the flexor tendon in the finger is torn or avulsed from the bone, often resulting from forcefully grabbing an opponent's jersey. Arunalaya Advanced Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in Patel Nagar, Delhi, aims to shed light on the causes, diagnosis, and physiotherapy management strategies for rugby finger.
Causes and Mechanism of Injury:Rugby finger occurs when the flexor tendon is forcefully pulled, leading to its tear or avulsion from the bone. This injury is commonly seen in the ring finger, as it is more susceptible due to its position during grasping motions. While the injury is often associated with sports activities, it can also occur in workplace accidents or during recreational activities that involve forceful pulling on the finger.
Clinical Presentation and Diagnosis:Common symptoms of rugby finger include the inability to actively flex the distal interphalangeal joint, pain, swelling, tenderness, and a pop or ripping sensation at the time of injury. Physical examination and imaging techniques such as X-rays and ultrasound can aid in diagnosing rugby finger and determining the severity of the injury.
Classification and Treatment:Rugby finger injuries are classified based on the level of tendon retraction and the presence of fractures. Treatment options depend on the severity of the injury and may involve surgical or non-surgical management.
Non-Surgical Management:Partial tears or less severe cases may not require surgery. Non-surgical treatment may involve immobilization with a splint, pain management with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and physical therapy to restore strength and movement to the affected finger.
Surgical Management:Surgery is the primary treatment option for rugby finger, especially in cases where the tendon is completely torn or avulsed. Surgical techniques include the Bunnell pull-out suture technique, suture anchor repair, and repair of the tendon with incorporation of the volar plate. Postoperative rehabilitation, including hand therapy, is crucial for optimal recovery and return to normal activities.
Physiotherapy Management:Physiotherapy plays a significant role in the recovery of rugby finger. A sport-specific hand rehabilitation protocol is designed, considering the athlete's position during play and level of competition. The rehabilitation program may include dorsal blocking splint, passive and active range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises, scar massage, and tendon gliding exercises.
Conclusion:Rugby finger is a common hand injury that requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate management. Arunalaya Advanced Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in Patel Nagar, Delhi, recognizes the importance of physiotherapy in the recovery process. Through a comprehensive approach that includes proper diagnosis, surgical or non-surgical interventions, and tailored rehabilitation programs, patients with rugby finger can achieve optimal recovery and regain their hand function. Contact us to receive personalized physiotherapy services for your rugby finger injury.