wrist/hand FLEXOR TENDON INJURY
DEFINITION:
- Also known as “Jersey finger”.
- Rupture of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon at its insertion to the distal phalanx. (See illustration).
MECHANISM OF INJURY / HOW IT OCCURS:
- Often a traumatic injury resulting from grabbing the jersey of an opposing player as in football and rugby.
- The ring finger is the most commonly involved finger.
SYMPTOMS:
- Individuals complain of pain to the end of the finger.
- Weakness with flexion of the finger.
DIAGNOSIS:
- Physical examination reveals tenderness on the palm side of the finger.
- Weakness and swelling.
- Radiographs are useful to detect a possible small avulsion of bone from the distal phalanx.
TREATMENT/REHABILITATION:
- Initial treatment includes splinting the hand and fingers followed by surgical repair.