Finger Flexor Tendon Injury: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Rehabilitation at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

What is a Finger Flexor Tendon Injury?

The finger flexor tendons connect the muscles in your forearm to the bones in your fingers, enabling you to bend or curl your fingers. These tendons run through a series of sheaths and pulley systems in your fingers, providing both support and smooth motion.

Common Types of Finger Flexor Tendon Injuries

1. Partial Tear: The tendon is partially damaged but remains intact.

2. Complete Rupture: The tendon is completely torn, often leading to loss of finger movement.

3. Laceration: A sharp object or trauma cuts the tendon.

4. Avulsion Injury: The tendon is pulled away from the bone, sometimes along with a bone fragment.

Common Causes of Finger Flexor Tendon Injuries

1. Trauma or Lacerations:

   • Cuts from sharp objects, such as knives or glass, can sever the tendons.

2. Sports Injuries:

   • Excessive strain during activities like rock climbing or gripping heavy weights can lead to rupture or tearing.

3. Workplace Accidents:

   • Crushing injuries or forceful impacts often damage the tendons.

4. Degenerative Conditions:

   • Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can weaken tendons, making them more prone to injury.

Symptoms of Finger Flexor Tendon Injuries

• Loss of Movement: Difficulty or inability to bend one or more fingers.

• Pain: Pain along the palm or finger, especially during movement or grip attempts.

• Swelling: Swelling or tenderness over the injured area.

• Visible Laceration: If the injury involves a cut, the tendon may be visible under the skin.

• Popping Sound: A popping or snapping sensation at the time of injury.

• Deformity: The finger may appear bent or unable to straighten.

Diagnosing Finger Flexor Tendon Injuries

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we use a comprehensive approach to evaluate and diagnose finger flexor tendon injuries.

1. Physical Examination

• The injured finger is assessed for movement, pain, and any deformity. Special tests are conducted to check for specific tendon damage.

2. Imaging Tests

• Ultrasound or MRI may be used to confirm the severity of the tendon damage or to identify associated soft tissue injuries.

• X-rays are sometimes used to rule out fractures or avulsion injuries.

Treatment Options at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

Non-Surgical Treatment

• Minor injuries or partial tears can be managed conservatively.

• Splinting: Immobilizing the finger in a bent position to allow the tendon to heal.

• Pain Management: Medications like NSAIDs are prescribed to reduce inflammation and discomfort.

• Physiotherapy: Gradual stretching and strengthening exercises are introduced to regain finger function.

Surgical Treatment

For severe injuries like complete ruptures or lacerations, surgery is often required.

• Tendon Repair Surgery: The ends of the torn tendon are sutured back together.

• Tendon Grafting: In cases of significant damage, a tendon from another part of the body is grafted.

Rehabilitation for Finger Flexor Tendon Injuries

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we emphasize the importance of rehabilitation to restore finger function after tendon injury or surgery.

1. Initial Immobilization Phase (0-4 Weeks)

• The finger is immobilized in a splint to allow the tendon to heal.

• Gentle range-of-motion exercises for nearby joints are introduced to prevent stiffness.

2. Controlled Movement Phase (4-8 Weeks)

• Guided exercises to improve tendon glide and flexibility.

• Passive and active range-of-motion exercises are introduced under the supervision of a physiotherapist.

3. Strengthening Phase (8-12 Weeks)

• Progressive strengthening exercises to restore grip strength and endurance.

• Functional training tailored to the individual’s work or sport-specific needs.

4. Return to Activity (12 Weeks and Beyond)

• Advanced coordination and dexterity exercises are introduced for fine motor skills.

• Clearance for high-impact activities like sports or heavy lifting is determined based on recovery progress.

Complications to Watch For

• Tendon Adhesions: Scar tissue may form, limiting tendon movement.

• Infection: Particularly in cases of open injuries or surgery.

• Re-Rupture: Overuse or premature stress on the healing tendon.

Conclusion

A finger flexor tendon injury can be a challenging condition to manage, but with timely treatment and specialized rehabilitation, full recovery is achievable. At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, our experienced team of physiotherapists designs personalized treatment plans to help you regain hand strength, flexibility, and functionality.

If you’ve sustained a finger flexor tendon injury, contact us today to begin your journey toward recovery!