Tendon Injuries

Tendons are the fibrous cords that connect muscles to bones, enabling movement of the fingers and wrist. Tendon injuries in the hand — whether from lacerations, sports, or overuse — can severely limit function and require specialized surgical and rehabilitative care to restore movement.

Flexor vs. Extensor Tendon Injuries

Flexor tendons run along the palm side of the hand and allow the fingers to curl and grip. They are commonly injured by deep lacerations (cuts) to the palm or fingers. Because flexor tendons pass through tight fibrous sheaths, repair and rehabilitation are technically demanding.

Extensor tendons run along the back of the hand and straighten the fingers. Common extensor injuries include mallet finger (rupture at the fingertip), boutonnière deformity, and sagittal band ruptures. These can result from direct trauma or forced flexion.

Treatment

Complete tendon lacerations require surgical repair, ideally within days of injury. Dr. Kinchelow uses advanced suture techniques to restore tendon strength while allowing early controlled motion during rehabilitation.

Partial tears and chronic tendinopathy may respond to splinting, physical therapy, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections. Post-surgical hand therapy is critical — a structured rehabilitation program prevents adhesions and restores full finger motion.

Common Symptoms

Inability to bend or straighten a finger
Drooping fingertip (mallet finger)
Pain and swelling along the tendon
Visible laceration over the hand
Weakness with gripping or pinching
Triggering or catching sensation

Treatment Options

Surgical tendon repair
Splinting for partial tears and mallet finger
PRP injections for tendinopathy
Tenolysis (release of adhesions)
Structured hand therapy and rehabilitation
Tendon grafting for chronic ruptures

Ready to Get Help?

Dr. Kinchelow specializes in treating tendon injuries. Schedule a consultation today.

Request Appointment (954) 635-5300