Jersey finger is an injury where the tendon is torn from the fingertip and can't bend.

It mostly occurs when a finger is pulled hard while the hand is bent, often in sports like football.

Symptoms are trouble bending the finger, pain, swelling, and possibly bruising.

Doctors diagnose it through a physical exam and may use X-rays or MRI to check tendon and bone issues.

No, it often needs surgery to fix the tendon.

Surgery is usually essential to repair the tendon and recover finger movement.

Surgery involves reattaching the torn tendon back to the bone.

Recovery can last from weeks to months, including physical therapy.

If not treated, it can lead to loss of bending ability and grip strength.

Local, regional, or general anesthesia can be employed, based on the situation.

Yes, you usually need a splint or cast to protect the finger during healing.

Physical therapy usually starts a few weeks after surgery when initial healing occurs.

You should wait to drive until your hand works well and your doctor says it's okay.

Returning to sports relies on recovery; generally, it can be a few months with a doctor's go-ahead.

Complications may include infection, stiffness, or poor tendon healing.

Pain management includes prescribed medicine, ice, and keeping the hand elevated.

Many people regain full function, though some may have slight stiffness left.

Talk to your doctor for checks on possible issues like infection or bad healing.

Use proper technique in sports and wear protective gear to help prevent it.

Yes, it can return with similar injuries; using protection can decrease the risk.

Keep it dry, avoid inserting objects inside, and follow care tips from your doctor.

Some initial swelling is common, but it should decrease over time.

It may need more surgery or cause reduced finger function.

Scars will occur from surgery, but efforts are made to limit their appearance.

Jersey finger affects the flexor tendon, while mallet finger involves the extensor tendon at the finger's top.

Usually a few weeks, depending on how bad the injury is and how well you are healing.

A therapist will suggest exercises to enhance range of motion, strength, and flexibility.

You should wait to return to manual work until the finger is completely healed and your doctor gives the go-ahead.

The injury might not be visible on an X-ray, but related bone issues or avulsions might be.

It is important for regaining movement, strength, and function in the finger.

Yes, stay away from activities that could strain or stress the healing tendon, per your doctor's advice.

Good nutrition helps healing; for specific supplements, speak with your doctor.

Smoking can slow healing and increase complications due to less blood flow.

Generally good with proper treatment; finger function can typically be restored.

Some numbness can happen at first, especially with swelling. Consult your doctor if it doesn’t go away.

Increased pain, swelling, or lack of movement in the finger; these should be checked by a doctor.

Most people can return to playing instruments, especially with effective therapy.

Ongoing exercises to keep flexibility and strength, and watching for any signs of functional issues.

It is unlikely but can happen if there is joint damage or if the injury is not treated right.

If the initial repair fails or issues like tendon re-tear or scar tissue happen, more surgery might be needed.

Surgery is the main treatment; alternatives may help but aren’t likely to cure the issue.

Stick to your physical therapy plan and do the exercises given to you to lower the risk of stiffness.

Typically, the nail bed is not affected unless there is also damage to the fingertip.

Yes, diabetes can slow healing and raise complication risks, so monitored care is essential.

It may be necessary for a short time, especially if your dominant hand is involved and if the injury is severe.

Look for redness, warmth, swelling, drainage at the cut site, or fever, which can signal infection needing medical help.

Gradually ease back into activities, Use safety equipment when playing sports, and work on finger strength as recommended.

Usually yes, but in cases of serious injury, more than one finger might be involved.

Yes, nearby soft tissue or bone injuries should be checked, especially after trauma.