After a ball hit my finger, the middle joint gradually won't straighten. Can boutonniere deformity be treated with a splint?

Doctor’s answer

Central slip extensor tendon injury can cause middle joint flexion and distal joint hyperextension. Early closed injuries often respond to specialized extension splints and guided hand exercises. Open injuries, significant instability, or splint treatment failure may require surgery; delays can lead to fixed deformity.

This content is for education. Diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation require an individual assessment by a sports medicine specialist.