Finger Deformities

Understanding and Managing Finger Deformities: Causes and Treatment

Finger deformities are changes in the normal shape, alignment, or movement of the fingers. These conditions may be present at birth, result from an injury, or develop over time due to arthritis, nerve damage, or tendon imbalance. Common types include boutonnière deformity, swan-neck deformity, and other changes that affect how the fingers bend and straighten.

Boutonnière deformity occurs when the middle joint of the finger bends downward and the tip bends upward, often due to injury to the central tendon. Swan-neck deformity involves hyperextension of the middle joint and bending of the tip joint, which can develop from rheumatoid arthritis, trauma, or muscle imbalance.

Symptoms vary by type but may include pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty using the hand. The finger may look visibly misshapen or may not function as it should during gripping or fine motor tasks.

Diagnosis is made through a physical exam and sometimes imaging to assess joint or soft tissue damage. Treatment depends on the cause and severity. Mild cases may be managed with splinting, therapy, and activity modification. More advanced deformities may require surgical correction to repair tendons, realign joints, or restore function.