Finger Straighteners and What You Need to Know

Finger straighteners are a must have for anyone with finger injuries or conditions that affect the finger joints.

Whether it’s a mallet finger, trigger finger or rheumatoid arthritis, these devices will help in the healing process and get your fingers back to full function. Knowing how finger straighteners work and when to use them will make a big difference in your recovery and overall hand health.

Finger Injuries and Conditions

Before we get into finger straighteners, let’s first understand finger injuries and conditions:

• Mallet Finger (Baseball Finger): When the tendon attaches to the end of the finger is damaged and the fingertip droops.
• Trigger Finger: When a finger gets stuck in a bent position due to tendon sheath inflammation.
• Broken or Fractured Fingers: Breaks in the bone which causes severe pain, swelling and inability to move the finger.
• Sprained Knuckles: Injury to the ligaments around the joint which causes pain and swelling.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease which causes inflammation in the finger joints and leads to deformities and stiffness.
• Tendon Damage: Injuries to the tendons that control finger movement which prevents the finger from straightening or bending.

What Are Finger Straighteners and Splints?

Finger straighteners and finger splints are devices that:

• Provide Support: Stabilise the injured finger to prevent further movement that can cause damage.
• Maintain Proper Alignment: Keep the finger in a natural position to promote healing.
• Reduce Pain and Swelling: Through gentle compression and immobilization they reduce pain and inflammation.
• Restore Functionality: Help regain full movement and function during recovery.

  These splints provide excellent support for mallet finger, trigger finger, and bent finger issues, ensuring proper alignment and aiding in the healing process. Their adjustable design allows for a secure fit, making them suitable for a wide range of finger sizes and conditions. Whether you’re recovering from a fractured finger or managing arthritis symptoms, Arthro-Eze splints are an excellent choice for improving mobility and reducing discomfort.

Types of Finger Straighteners and Splints

1. Static Splints:

• Immobilize the finger completely.
• For mallet finger and fractured fingers.
• Examples: Stack Splints which keep the end joint straight.

2. Dynamic Splints:

• Allow controlled movement while providing support.
• Used in hand therapy to address joint stiffness.
• Maintain mobility in the proximal interphalangeal joint.

3. Buddy Splints:

• Secure the affected finger to an adjacent finger.
• For minor sprains and support during daily activities.

4. Custom-Made Splints:

• Made to fit the individual’s specific needs.
• For complex injuries or chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

How Finger Straighteners Help in the Healing Process

• Immobilization: Prevents movement that can irritate the injury.
• Alignment: Keeps bones and tendons in the correct position for healing.
• Pressure Distribution: Distributes pressure evenly to avoid stress on the injured area.
• Protection: Shields the finger from external impacts during recovery.

Conservative Treatments with Finger Straighteners

• Rest: Avoid activities that strain the finger, heavy lifting.
• Pain Relievers: Use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Elevation: Elevate the hand to reduce swelling.
• Hand Therapy Exercises: Under the guidance of a hand therapist do exercises to strengthen and stretch.

When to See a Doctor

• Persistent Pain: Pain that doesn’t go away with rest and over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Swelling and Discoloration: Signs of a broken finger or severe sprain.
• Limited Movement: Can’t bend or straighten the finger.
• Deformity: Visible misalignment or bent finger that doesn’t go back to normal.

Note: Early intervention by a healthcare professional will prevent permanent damage and better recovery.

Finger Injury Myths

• “It’s Just a Sprain”: Minor injuries can become complications if not treated.
• “Pain Will Go Away on Its Own”: Ignoring finger pain can cause permanent damage.
• “I Don’t Need a Splint”: Immobilization is key to healing.

FAQs

Q: How long do I wear a finger splint?

A: Varies depending on the injury. For a mallet finger it’s 6-8 weeks. Always follow your doctor’s advice.

Q: Can I make a finger splint at home?

A: Temporary splints can be made with household items but you should get a proper one from a healthcare professional.

Q: What are the signs of a broken finger?

A: Signs are severe pain, swelling, bruising, deformity and inability to move the finger.

When Conservative Treatments Don’t Work

If symptoms persist after conservative treatments then further interventions may include:

• Corticosteroid Injections: For severe inflammation.
• Surgery: Tendon damage or fractures that haven’t healed properly.
• Physical Therapy: Ongoing therapy to get full movement and strength back.

Pain Management

Pain management is key to recovery:

• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Reduce inflammation and pain.
• Topical Analgesics: Creams or gels applied directly to the finger.
• Alternative Therapies: Acupuncture or massage.

Hand Health Hacks

• Ergonomic Changes: Adjust your workspace to reduce strain.
• Regular Exercise: Strengthen hand muscles with specific exercises.
• Healthy Diet: Nutrients for joint and bone health.
• No Smoking: Smoking impairs blood flow and slows healing.

Summary

Finger straighteners are important in the recovery of various finger injuries and conditions. By knowing their purpose, types and how to use them, you can take proactive steps to heal and get your fingers back to full function. Remember, timely intervention and following treatment plans from healthcare professionals is key to preventing complications and fast recovery.

For more information or to find suitable finger straighteners, consult with a hand therapist or explore products from reputable suppliers like Arthro-eze.