What is a Flexor Tendon Injury?

A flexor tendon injury is a tear or rupture of one of the tendons in your forearm that allows you to bend your wrist and fingers. The most common type of flexor tendon injury occurs at the base of the thumb, where the tendons attach to the thumb bone. This type of injury is also called a gamekeeper’s thumb. If you fear that you have suffered a flexor tendon injury, our Hand Surgeon in Commack, NY may be able to help. Mirza Orthopedics treats Commack residents with the help of our location in nearby Smithtown, NY. 

Flexor tendon injuries can be caused by a sudden force, such as a fall on an outstretched hand, or by repetitive motion of the wrist and fingers. Flexor tendon injuries are relatively rare, but they can be quite disabling because they make it difficult to bend the affected finger or thumb. Treatment of flexor tendon injuries typically involves surgery to repair the tendon.

If you think you may have a flexor tendon injury, see your Hand Surgeon in Commack, NY as soon as possible. He or she will ask about your symptoms and how the injury occurred. Your doctor will also examine your arm, hand, and fingers to look for signs of tenderness, swelling, or deformity.

How do you know if you have a flexor tendon injury?

If you have a flexor tendon injury, you may have the following symptoms:

• Pain at the site of the injury, especially when bending the affected finger or thumb
• Tenderness at the site of the injury
• Swelling at the site of the injury
• Deformity of the affected finger or thumb
• Difficulty bending the affected finger or thumb

How is a flexor tendon injury diagnosed?

In addition to taking a medical history and performing a physical examination, your doctor may order one or more of the following tests to confirm the diagnosis:

• X-ray. An X-ray can show whether there is a fracture or other bone injury in the area.
• Ultrasound. This test uses sound waves to create images of the tendons and surrounding structures.
• MRI. This test uses magnetic waves to create detailed images of the tendons and surrounding structures.

How is a flexor tendon injury treated?

Treatment of a flexor tendon injury typically involves surgery to repair the tendon. In some cases, the tendon may be able to be reattached to the bone. In other cases, a section of the tendon may need to be removed.

After surgery, you will likely need to wear a splint or cast for several weeks to allow the tendon time to heal. Physical therapy may also be necessary to help restore function to the affected finger or thumb.

What are the complications of a flexor tendon injury?

If a flexor tendon injury is not treated properly, it can lead to loss of function of the affected finger or thumb. In some cases, the tendons may not heal properly and may need to be repaired again.

Can flexor tendons heal on their own?

In most cases, flexor tendon injuries will not heal on their own and will require surgery. Even with surgery, there is no guarantee that the tendons will heal properly.

What is the outlook for people with a flexor tendon injury?

With proper treatment, most people with a flexor tendon injury can expect to regain full function of the affected finger or thumb. However, in some cases, there may be some residual stiffness or weakness.

Need a Hand Surgeon in Commack, NY? 

Mirza Orthopedics is conveniently located in the Commack area. We have been treating Smithtown and Commack residents for several years. For more information on scheduling an appointment, please click here.