Jersey finger

Injury to the flexor tendon of the finger

Jersey finger is a type of finger injury that occurs when the flexor digitorum profundus tendon is forcibly pulled from its insertion on the distal phalanx. This injury is commonly seen in athletes, particularly in sports such as American football and rugby, where a player may grab another player's jersey, leading to a sudden extension of the finger while it is actively flexed.

Anatomy

The flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) is a muscle located in the forearm that is responsible for flexing the distal phalanges of the fingers. The tendons of the FDP pass through the carpal tunnel and attach to the distal phalanges of the fingers. The FDP tendon is crucial for gripping and flexing the fingers.

Mechanism of Injury

Jersey finger typically occurs when an athlete grabs an opponent's jersey and the finger is forcefully extended while the FDP tendon is under tension. This sudden extension can cause the tendon to rupture or avulse from its attachment on the distal phalanx. The ring finger is most commonly affected due to its position and the mechanics of grip.

Symptoms

Individuals with a jersey finger injury may experience:

• Sudden pain in the affected finger
• Inability to flex the distal interphalangeal joint
• Swelling and bruising around the finger
• A palpable gap where the tendon has retracted

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of jersey finger is typically made through clinical examination and confirmed with imaging studies such as X-ray or MRI. The examination will reveal an inability to flex the distal phalanx of the affected finger, and imaging can help assess the extent of the tendon injury.

Treatment

Treatment for jersey finger often requires surgical intervention to reattach the tendon to the bone. The timing of surgery is crucial, as delayed treatment can lead to tendon retraction and scarring, making repair more difficult. Post-surgical rehabilitation is essential to restore function and strength to the finger.

Prognosis

The prognosis for jersey finger depends on the severity of the injury and the timeliness of treatment. Early surgical repair followed by appropriate rehabilitation can lead to good functional outcomes. However, delayed treatment or severe injuries may result in reduced finger function or permanent disability.

Prevention

Preventive measures for jersey finger include proper training and technique in sports, as well as the use of protective equipment such as gloves. Athletes should be educated on the risks of grabbing opponents' jerseys and encouraged to use safer techniques.

Related pages

• Flexor digitorum profundus
• Finger injury
• Tendon injury

A hand showing the fingers