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).

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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