What happens if you cut your extensor tendon?

What happens if you cut your extensor tendon?

Hand tendon repair is carried out when one or more tendons in your hand rupture or are cut, leading to loss of normal hand movements. If your extensor tendons are damaged, you’ll be unable to straighten one or more fingers. If your flexor tendons are damaged, you’ll be unable to bend one or more fingers.

What happens if you cut a tendon in your foot?

These tendons work together to stabilize the foot and ankle and are very important to our daily functioning. When tendons become injured or torn, it can cause pain, swelling, weakness in the foot and ankle, and discomfort when standing, walking or playing sports.

How long does it take for a cut extensor tendon to heal?

The tendon may take eight to twelve weeks to heal completely. Longer periods of splinting are sometimes needed. Your doctor will apply the splint in the correct place and give you directions on how long to wear it. Other treatment for an extensor tendon injury may include stitches (for cuts in the tendon).

Can you tear the extensor tendon in foot?

The extensor tendons of the foot are vulnerable to laceration because of their subcutaneous. They may be cut when a sharp object lacerates the skin and underlying structures. This kind of injury usually results in a high-stepping, drop-foot gait with weakness of ankle and toes dorsiflexion (1, 2).

How do you treat an extensor tendon injury in the foot?

Rest the affected foot for two to three days. Use it as little as possible to give the tendons a break. While you are resting your foot, put ice on it for 20 minutes every two or three hours. Wrap an elastic bandage around the injured area to reduce inflammation, or use a brace.

What is extensor tendon laceration?

Extensor tendon lacerations occur when an object penetrates the tissues of the hand and severs the tendons on the back of the hand or fingers. This damage may be intentional or accidental, and often involves broken glass, jagged metal, or sharp tools. Mallet Finger refers to a drooping end-joint of a finger.

How do I know if I cut my extensor tendon?

Common signs and symptoms of extensor tendon and mallet finger injuries include:

1. Inability to straighten the fingers or extend the wrist.
2. Pain and swelling in fingertip.
3. Recent trauma or laceration to the hand.
4. Drooping of the end joint of the finger.

How long does it take for a tendon laceration to heal?

The repaired tendon will usually be back to full strength after about 12 weeks, but it can take up to 6 months to regain the full range of movement. Some people may never be able to move the affected finger or thumb as much as before it was damaged.

How do you assess an extensor tendon injury?

It can be tested by asking the patient to lie their hand flat on a surface and hyperextend the fifth digit. The extensor digitorum tendons extend digits two through five. The hand can be laid flat again on a surface and the tendon of each finger tested by having the patient hyperextend the digits against resistance.

What is a tendon laceration?

Tendon lacerations are an injury to the tendon that most commonly impacts the flexor and extensor tendons of the hand. A cut due to a knife or glass is the most common cause of these types of injuries.

What does it feel like when you cut a tendon?

Your hand, fingers, foot, or toes closest to your injury are pale, numb, or cold. You hear or feel a sudden snap, pop, or crack where your tendon is lacerated.