Jersey finger is a type of hand injury that occurs when the tendon that attaches the tip of the finger to the hand is torn away from the bone. It is typically caused by forcefully grabbing or pulling on an object, such as a jersey or other piece of clothing, while the finger is extended.
Symptoms of a jersey finger injury include pain, swelling, and an inability to bend the finger at the last joint. Treatment typically involves surgery to reattach the torn tendon to the bone, followed by physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion in the finger. If left untreated, jersey finger can lead to long-term disability and loss of function in the affected finger.
The treatment for a jersey finger injury typically involves surgical repair of the torn tendon, followed by rehabilitation to regain strength and function in the affected finger.
Surgery: The surgery is usually done as soon as possible after the injury. During the surgery, the surgeon will reattach the torn tendon to the bone using sutures, pins, or other devices. Depending on the severity of the injury, the surgeon may also need to repair any fractures or other damage to the bone.
Rehabilitation: After surgery, rehabilitation is crucial to restore function and prevent stiffness in the finger. This typically involves physical therapy exercises that are designed to improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion in the finger. The physical therapist may also use techniques such as massage and electrical stimulation to promote healing and reduce pain.
Recovery: Recovery time depends on the severity of the injury and the extent of the surgery. Typically, patients can expect to wear a splint or cast for several weeks after surgery to protect the repaired tendon. During this time, they may need to avoid using the affected hand for certain activities. It can take several months to fully recover from a jersey finger injury, and patients may need ongoing physical therapy to maintain strength and function in the affected finger.