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Mallet Finger in Rotherham
At Kinvara Private Hospital in Rotherham, our specialist hand surgeons provide expert care for both 'soft tissue' mallet injuries and 'bony' mallet injuries where a small fragment of bone is pulled away. Prompt treatment is essential to ensure the tendon heals in the correct position and to prevent a permanent deformity.
Medically Reviewed By
Mr Vasu Karri, MBBS, BSc(Hons), MSc, FRCS(Plast) • Updated 2026-01-17
A mallet finger injury occurs when the tendon that straightens the finger tip is damaged, causing the tip to droop. Most cases are successfully treated with specialized splinting. This condition affects many people across Yorkshire, impacting their daily activities and quality of life. Early intervention and expert treatment are essential for achieving optimal outcomes.
At Kinvara Private Hospital in Rotherham, our experienced orthopaedic consultants provide comprehensive mallet finger treatment services using the latest minimally invasive techniques and evidence-based protocols. Our patient-centered approach ensures you receive personalized care tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle goals.
Serving patients across Sheffield, Barnsley, Doncaster, and the wider Yorkshire region, we understand the impact that hand-wrist conditions can have on your daily life. Our dedicated team is committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcomes through expert diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and comprehensive rehabilitation support.
When Should I See a Specialist?
Surgery is generally only considered if:
• The X-ray shows a large bone fragment (more than 30-50% of the joint surface) has shifted.
• The joint is 'subluxed' (partially out of its socket).
• Chronic mallet finger where splinting has failed after several months.
• The injury occurred in a child (where the growth plate may be involved).
Our All-Inclusive Promise
- Fixed-price consultant assessment and diagnostic X-rays
- Custom-fitted splints and hand therapy sessions included in treatment plans
- No hidden fees for follow-up appointments during the 8-week healing phase
- Surgical packages (if required) are fully inclusive of all hospital costs
- 0% finance available to spread the cost of private hand care
What is a Mallet Finger Injury?
A mallet finger occurs when the extensor tendon - the cord-like structure that pulls the fingertip straight - is damaged. This usually happens when an object (like a ball) hits the tip of the finger, forcing it to bend further than it should. This force can cause the tendon to tear (soft tissue mallet) or pull off a piece of bone where it attaches (bony mallet).
Because the tendon is very thin and has a limited blood supply, it heals slowly. Successful recovery relies on keeping the two ends of the tendon (or bone) in constant contact so they can knit back together. This is why continuous splinting is the primary treatment. If left untreated, a mallet finger can lead to a 'swan-neck' deformity, where the middle joint of the finger over-extends to compensate for the droop at the tip.
At a Glance
Splinting Duration
6 - 8 weeks
Surgery Needed?
Rarely (Complex Cases)
Treatment Setting
Outpatient / Day Case
Initial Healing
8 weeks
Full Strength
3 - 4 months
Follow-up
2 weeks & 8 weeks
Benefits of Treating Mallet Finger Injury
- Restores the ability to fully straighten the fingertip for daily tasks
- Prevents long-term complications like 'swan-neck' deformity
- Non-surgical splinting is successful in over 85% of standard cases
- Eliminates chronic pain and sensitivity at the end of the finger
- Maintains the aesthetic appearance of the hand and fingers
- Allows for a return to sports and manual work once the tendon is strong
Frequently Asked Questions
Our Orthopaedic Consultants
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