Finger Tendon Rupture

Home care

Follow these guidelines when caring for yourself at home:

• Put a cold pack on the injured area 3 or 4 times a day for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. To make an ice pack, put ice cubes in a plastic bag that seals at the top. Wrap the bag in a clean, thin towel or cloth. Never put ice or an ice pack directly on the skin. The cold pack can be put right on the cast or splint. As the ice melts, be careful that the cast or splint doesn’t get wet. Use the cold pack until pain and swelling get better. 

• To help with pain and swelling, keep your hand raised above the level of your heart. When you sit or lie down, put your hand on a pillow that rests on your chest or on a pillow at your side.

• Care for your splint or cast as instructed. If you have a splint, wear it as directed. If you don't use it correctly, your finger will not heal correctly.

• When bathing, keep your splint or cast well out of the water. Protect it with a large plastic bag, with rubber bands at the top end. If a fiberglass splint or cast gets wet, you can dry it with a hair dryer.

• Do any finger and hand exercises as instructed.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your health care provider as advised. Physical therapy (PT) is often recommended after a flexor tendon injury. Ask your provider about PT.

When to get medical advice

Contact your health care provider right away if:

• You have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, as directed by your provider.

• You have chills.

• Pain or swelling gets worse.

• Your finger or hand becomes cold, blue, numb, or tingly.