Flexor Tendon Injuries
Flexor Tendon Injury: Understanding, Treatment, and Rehabilitation
Flexor tendon injuries are common hand injuries that can significantly impact a person's ability to perform daily activities. These injuries typically occur when the tendons that allow you to bend your fingers are cut, stretched, or torn. Understanding flexor tendon injuries is crucial for timely intervention and effective rehabilitation. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, we are dedicated to helping you recover and regain full function after such injuries.
What Causes Flexor Tendon Injuries?
Flexor tendon injuries can result from various incidents, including:
Cuts and Lacerations: The most common cause of flexor tendon injuries occurs due to sharp objects, such as knives or glass, resulting in cuts to the palm or fingers.
Sports Injuries: Contact sports, such as rugby or football, can lead to tendon injuries from falls or direct impacts.
Repetitive Strain: Activities involving repetitive gripping or gripping with excessive force can lead to tendon inflammation and injury over time.
Accidents: Household accidents, such as getting a finger caught in a door, can also result in flexor tendon injuries.
Symptoms of Flexor Tendon Injuries
The symptoms of a flexor tendon injury can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Common signs include:
Pain: Immediate pain at the site of the injury, which may worsen with movement.
Swelling: Swelling in the affected finger or hand, often accompanied by bruising.
Limited Movement: Difficulty bending the affected finger(s) or an inability to make a fist, as the flexor tendons control finger movement.
Numbness or Tingling: In some cases, injury to nearby nerves can result in numbness or tingling sensations.
Diagnosis
If you suspect a flexor tendon injury, seeking prompt medical attention is essential. A healthcare professional will conduct a physical examination and may order imaging tests, such as ultrasound or MRI, to assess the extent of the injury and determine the best treatment approach.
Treatment Options
Treatment for flexor tendon injuries typically depends on the severity of the injury:
Conservative Management: Mild injuries may require rest, ice therapy, and splinting to promote healing. Physical therapy may be recommended to regain mobility and strength.
Surgery: More severe injuries, particularly complete tendon lacerations, often require surgical intervention to repair the tendon and restore function.
The Role of Physiotherapy
Following treatment, physiotherapy plays a crucial role in recovery. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, our rehabilitation approach includes:
Pain Management: We utilise techniques such as ice therapy, ultrasound, and manual therapy to reduce pain and swelling.
Range of Motion Exercises: Early rehabilitation focuses on gentle exercises to restore movement in the affected finger(s) while protecting the healing tendon.
Strengthening Exercises: As healing progresses, we introduce targeted strengthening exercises to rebuild muscle strength and support the tendon.
Functional Training: We provide guidance on resuming daily activities safely, ensuring that you regain full function in your hand.
Conclusion
Flexor tendon injuries can significantly impact your quality of life, but with timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most individuals can achieve a full recovery. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, our dedicated team is here to support you through your rehabilitation journey. If you suspect a flexor tendon injury or are in need of rehabilitation after surgery, contact us today to discuss how we can assist you in regaining strength and function in your hand.
