Damage to the extensor digitorum tendon

Description finger extensor tendon damage

Tendons are responsible for the connection of muscles to bone. The tendons pass from the forearm fingers down to the finger. Extensor tendons are located on the back side palm and finger. They allow you to squeeze a hand and straighten your fingers. Extensor tendon injury – a cut or a break of one of these tendons. When they are damaged, you may lose the ability to bend / straighten a hand and / or fingers. The most common injuries of tendons:

• Hammer toe – extensor tendons in the distal joints of the fingers are stretched or torn;
• The deformation of the finger type "boutonniere" (contracture Weinstein) – damaged the tendon on the middle joint. Usually, This type of injury caused by the disease, eg, arthritis.

If you suspect, that you have this disorder, consult a doctor. The sooner treatment begins, the better the result.

Causes damage to the tendon of extensor digitorum

Damage may cause extensor tendons:

• Cut or break the back of the hand or fingers;
• Bone fracture;
• Damage lacerations;
• Open wound or cut;
• Arthritis;
• Nerve compression.

Factors finger extensor tendon damage

Factors, increases the likelihood of injury finger extensor tendon:

• Occupation certain sports:
  • Basketball;
  • Football;
• Arthritis.

Symptoms of damage to the tendon of extensor digitorum

These symptoms, except damage finger extensor tendon, They may be caused by other disorders. Tell your doctor, if you have any of them:

• Unable to bend and straighten the arm or fingers;
• Pain;
• Numbness or weakness;
• The cut on the back of the hand or fingers;
• Jammed fingers.

Diagnosis of finger extensor tendon damage

The doctor asks about the symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. During the examination you will be asked to bend and straighten the fingers. The doctor will also check the sensitivity, blood flow and force of the fingers. You may be referred to a surgeon or podiatrist (doctor, specializing in disorders of the musculoskeletal system).

Also, your doctor may prescribe X-ray.

Treatment of damaged thumb extensor tendon

Depending on the type of injury may require surgery. It can be administered immediately or within a few days.

Treatment options include the following:

Medications

Depending on the type of injury may require antibiotics, to prevent infection.

Operation

When cutting or tearing the tendon requires surgery. The surgeon may sew the tendon together. Maybe, a pin is inserted into the bone, to fix it damaged a tendon.

Rehabilitation

After surgery to protect your hands may be imposed bus. Maybe, it will need to carry up to two months.

Within a few weeks you will be working physical therapist, to restore strength and range of motion. Immediately after surgery, you need to limit the movement arm, allowing it to heal faster.

Tire

Some extensor tendon injuries require the imposition of the hands of the tire. Usually, it should be worn for several weeks.

Prevention of damage to the tendon of extensor digitorum

Damage extensor tendons, usually, caused by accidental injuries. There is no known prevention recommendations for this injury. But the strain, injuries caused by these, They can be prevented, if we take the necessary measures – impose on the bus or finger to perform the operation.