Athletic Training Blog Series #10
Jersey Finger
Jersey Finger is an injury to the distal phalanx attachment of the Flexor Digitorum Profundus (FDP). In other words the tendon on the palm side of the finger tears off at the last joint nearest the finger nail. It typically occurs on the ring finger(75%)-but can happen on any of them. It is most common in contact sports that can allow grabbing of jersey’s etc. Football and basketball are the ones with the highest rates of occurance.
The injury occurs when grabbing a jersey or the like and the FDP tendon ruptures and contracts within the finger. Think of the Achilles Tendon ruptures they show on ESPN in slow-mo but on a finger sized scale.
So how do we diagnose this, and then what is the treatment from there? The athlete will present with limited to no pain, but there was some pain at the initial rupture. He or she will not be able to flex (Bend) or extend (Straighten) the last digit and joint of the finger. It may present as slightly bent, but the athlete will not be able to move it. A referral to a hand surgeon/specialist is the best option. They will perform X-Rays, as well as potentially MRI/CT scans as deemed necessary. Unfortunately for athletes- if there is a complete tear, the treatment is surgical. If it is not surgically repaired, the athlete will lose complete function of that joint.
Post Surgical care is very important for return to full activities of daily living and eventually to sports. The athlete will initially be in a splint limiting movement. After that PT/OT is essential. It takes approximately 2 months for the surgical care to have healed, and then 2-3 months before the athlete can return to sport. PT/OT will work initially on regaining range of motion, as well as breaking up scar tissue. Once that has returned to normal limits, they will begin strengthening. Some will recommend taping or a brace (yes they sure do make a brace for your fingers in this instance) for the short term return to sport, but like all injuries we want the athlete to return to pre injury state and not need a brace or tape to participate.
