A flexor tendon injury in hand means harm to tendons making fingers bend. These tendons are important for holding things. Below are 50 common questions about flexor tendon injuries with answers:
A flexor tendon injury means a tear or cut on tendons in palm or fingers that bend fingers and thumb.
These injuries often happen from cuts on palm or fingers but can also occur from sudden strain in sports or accidents.
Symptoms include not being able to bend fingers, pain, swelling, tenderness, and sometimes numbness if nerves get hurt.
A healthcare provider usually finds the injury through physical exam, sometimes using imaging tests to check damage.
Surgery is often necessary to fix the tendon since they don’t heal well alone.
Surgery involves stitching the torn tendon ends together, often needing rehab for function recovery.
Recovery can take 8 to 12 weeks or more, needing strict following of rehab plans.
Yes, therapy is important for getting strength and flexibility back in the hand.
Movement will be limited at first; hand will be kept still for healing, with gradual movement in therapy.
Not treated injuries can lead to permanent loss of function in fingers, stiffness, and deformity.
Complications may include infection, scars, tendon rupture, stiffness, and not fully recovering function.
Elevating the hand and using ice packs can help with swelling, per healthcare provider's advice.
Some scarring is normal but techniques aim to reduce this.
Splints protect repair and limit movement for proper healing, especially early on.
Usually, these injuries need surgery due to the tendon’s nature and function.
Time off work varies; desk jobs may need a few weeks, while manual jobs need more time.
Following prescribed exercises, therapy, and gradual movement are essential to avoid stiffness.
Non-surgical options are few, usually for minor partial tears, depending on the case.
Driving is usually not advised until hand function returns, which should be discussed with your doctor.
Surgery may use local, regional, or general anesthesia based on the method and patient situation.
Many people get full movement back, but some might have lingering stiffness or less motion.
While acute injuries are more common, repeated strain might cause tendinopathy, which can weaken the tendon and lead to injury.
The success rate is usually high with the right surgery and rehab, but results can differ based on injury severity and following rehab plans.
Tenolysis is a procedure to free adhesions blocking tendon movement, which may be needed if motion does not return after repair.
Follow your doctor's orders, keep the wound clean, avoid overdoing movements, and go to all therapy sessions.
Yes, diabetes can slow healing and raise complications such as infection and stiffness.
Therapy usually begins a few days to weeks after surgery, based on the specific surgical method.
Using protective gear, having proper training, and not overusing can lower the risk of tendon injuries.
Rehab exercises may be passive and active range of motion exercises, strengthening tasks, and functional activities led by a therapist.
A balanced diet with proteins, vitamins C and D, and omega-3 fatty acids can help healing.
There is a risk if you resume activities too soon or don't follow protective advice; follow rehab instructions closely.
Many people can go back to all activities, including sports, after good rehab, but it varies from case to case.
Costs can differ widely based on the facility, location, complexity of surgery, and insurance coverage.
Avoid heavy use, follow weight limits, and heed your therapist’s advice on safe activities.
Yes, kids can have these injuries, and pediatric care may be needed for proper treatment and healing.
Accurate alignment and stitching of the tendon along with proper postoperative care and rehab are crucial for success.
Occupational therapy aims to help restore the hand's functional use, using modified techniques to do daily tasks.
Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs may be given, but sticking to exercise and rehab is essential.
Get a medical check-up quickly to avoid issues and begin the correct treatment.
Usually, a graft isn't needed for primary repair; it's more often needed in cases of major or ongoing tendon loss.
Slowly increase use of your hand as directed by your therapist. and work health advisor, think about changes to your tasks.
Therapy helps stop adhesions, improve motion, and make the hand stronger for better recovery.
Less pain, reduced swelling, and better movement during check-ups suggest good healing.
Yes, lacking nutrients can slow down the body's healing process for all tissues, including tendons.
Trigger finger is when a finger gets stuck or locked because of swollen tendons, but it differs from a tendon tear.
Some tightness or pain may stay, but it usually helps to keep exercising and stretching.
Staying active (within limits), eating well, and not putting stress on the hand can help.
Many people can get close to full grip strength with the right rehab, but results can differ.
You should only lift heavy objects after fully healing and getting the go-ahead from your healthcare provider after strength tests.
Always talk to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment regarding flexor tendon injuries.