Swan Neck Deformity

Background

A hyperextension of the middle joint of the finger (proximal interphalangeal joint or PIP), a flexion or bending of the tip of the finger (distal interphalangeal joint or DIP), and sometimes a bending of the base of the finger (metacarpal phalangeal joint or MP).

Causes

  • Most frequently caused by Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Untreated mallet finger injury
  • Laxity or looseness of the ligaments at the middle joint (PIP)
  • Rupture of a flexor tendon or ligament (volar plate) of the middle joint (PIP)
  • Untreated fractures of the finger

Symptoms

  • Deformity of the finger as listed above, hyperextension of the PIP, flexion of the DIP, and sometimes flexion of the MP joint
  • Snapping sensations during finger movements
  • Inability to bend the finger when doing everyday activities

Prevention

  • Preventative splinting if diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis (Figure of 8 splints)
  • Treatment of other causes including mallet injury, volar plate injury, flexor tendon injury, or finger fractures

Diagnostic Tests

  • X-rays will be taken to ensure the bones are healed and to determine the severity of joint deformity
  • Medical history will be taken to determine the cause of the deformity, which can impact treatment plans

Medical Treatment

  • Typically, splinting is the first treatment attempted. A ring or figure of 8 splint is the splint of choice for this
  • Surgery can be done to help correct the deformity including advancing the volar plate or addressing muscle imbalances at the PIP joint, when conservative treatments fail

Hand Therapy Interventions

  • Tendon gliding exercises
  • Fitting for pre-fabricated ring splints
  • Custom fabricated figure of 8 splinting
  • Activity modification education for pain and decreased range of motion

Hand Injuries

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

LEARN MORE

Finger Sprain

LEARN MORE

Rheumatoid Arthritis

LEARN MORE

Tendon Injuries & Lacerations

LEARN MORE

Trigger Finger

LEARN MORE

Hand Fracture

LEARN MORE

Mallet Finger

LEARN MORE

Swan Neck Deformity

LEARN MORE

Skier's Thumb

LEARN MORE

Dupuytren's Contracture

LEARN MORE

Osteoarthritis

LEARN MORE
We accept most insurance plans. For any questions, please contact our office.
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield
United Healthcare
Cigna
Medicare
Proud to Serve Springfield, Summit, Union, Maplewood, Westfield, Cranford, Garwood, New Providence, Berkeley Heights, Millburn, Kenilworth, Roselle, and Roselle Park

Hours

Monday: 7am - 7pm

Tuesday :7am - 7pm

Wednesday: 7am - 7pm

Thursday: 7am - 7pm

Friday: 7am - 7pm

Saturday: 8am - 12pm

Sunday: Closed

linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram