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Patient Education

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn about general health issues that may not be related to Ear, Nose and Throat Disorders. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein

Mallet finger

Mallet finger (also called baseball finger or drop finger) is a bent fingertip that can't be straightened. It is caused by a ruptured tendon at the base of the finger joint near the fingertip that occurs when a finger is bent with force, such as when you try to catch a ball and your fingertip is struck by the ball.

Symptoms of mallet finger include a:

  • Bent fingertip that can't be straightened.
  • Painful and swollen fingertip.

Treatment includes splinting the injured finger in a straight position for several weeks.