Accompanying capsule injury
Fingers with cuts in which the tendon(s) was (were) cut and surgically treated are immobilized in a finger splint for about 6 weeks. This is intended to contribute to wound healing with as few complications as possible. Even if splint therapy alone is used, the finger should not be fully loaded at the end of therapy after 6 – 8 weeks.
In addition, anti-inflammatory drugs are often prescribed. These are intended to prevent the development of chronic inflammation of the tendon. At the same time they have an analgesic effect after an operation.
A few weeks after the operation, additional physiotherapy can be started. The first important thing is to mobilize the tendon. The finger can only be fully exercised after about 12 weeks.
If a lot of physical work is expected, the splint can be put on again during this time for protection. If the desired result was not achieved by means of conservative therapy, a surgical improvement can be aimed for at the earliest 3-4 months after injury. The taping of the injured finger offers a further possibility to stabilize the still unstable finger, especially after the healing phase.
Furthermore, it offers the possibility to stabilize the finger and to protect it from new injuries in the future during sports or strong activities that put strain on the finger. The tape bands thus serve to strengthen and secure the capsule-tape apparatus. In the acute injury phase, splints are the better choice, as they are able to fix the finger in the position in which the tendon is to grow back. A tap bandage is therefore less recommended at this stage. In the simplest case, immobilisation of the finger is possible by fixing it to the adjacent healthy finger with several tape bands.
How long are you on sick leave?
The length of time one is taken ill with a torn tendon in the finger depends on the location of the torn tendon on the one hand, and on the other hand the work itself also plays a role. The basic rule is: the more you depend on your hands, the longer you are unable to work. A craftsman or athlete can be put on sick leave for several weeks or months, and those who speak and hardly write at all in their job can return to work after a much shorter period of time. It is important that the torn (and reattached) tendon is not stressed.
