In plain language
Avulsion of the deep flexor tendon from the distal phalanx, with or without bone, eliminating active fingertip flexion.
Clinical Significance & Management
Often follows forced straightening while gripping a jersey, especially the ring finger. Prompt hand referral is important: retraction, blood supply and bone involvement determine timing and repair. Acute high-demand cases commonly undergo surgery.
Symptoms & Clinical Presentation
Inability to actively bend the fingertip and weak grip
Volar pain, swelling or a palpable retracted tendon
Etiology & Injury Mechanisms
- Forced extension during active gripping
- Strong traction during sport
Diagnostics & Imaging Guide
Isolated distal flexion examination
Radiographs for bone; ultrasound or MRI for retraction when needed
Treatment Options
Protect, stop forceful gripping and refer promptly
Tendon repair or fragment fixation by injury type; discuss compensation if surgery is unsuitable
Rehabilitation Milestones & Timeline
Rehabilitation depends on the diagnosis, procedure and associated injuries. Progression requires assessment of healing, symptoms and function; elapsed time or a single test cannot determine readiness for sport.
Protection
Postoperative protective orthosis
Gliding
Therapist-led controlled motion balances adhesions against rerupture
Strength
Progress grip after clearance; heavy loading often requires months
Evidence-Based Clarifications
Other joints may still bend and radiographs may be normal. Delay can lead to retraction and adhesions, complicating reconstruction.
Sources & References
Educational clinical definitions synthesized from AAOS, Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, and HSS. Individual diagnosis and surgery require professional medical evaluation.
Publication date
Content updated