Boutonniere Deformity Physiotherapy in Indirapuram

How it develops

The extensor tendon splits over the middle knuckle. The central part, called the central slip, straightens the middle joint. If it's torn by a jam, a cut or a forceful bend, the side bands of the tendon slip downward. They then pull the middle joint into bending and the tip into overextension.

The deformity may not appear immediately. A finger that looks just jammed and swollen at first can develop the boutonniere position over the next two to three weeks. That delay is why a jammed middle knuckle that can't straighten fully deserves assessment.

Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause this deformity through a slower process of joint inflammation.

Treatment

For acute injuries, a splint holds the middle joint straight while leaving the fingertip free to bend. This allows the central slip to heal and the side bands to return to their proper position. Splinting typically continues for around six weeks, followed by gradual exercise.

Fingertip bending exercises during splinting help keep the side bands mobile. After splinting, we work on restoring flexion without losing extension.

For long-standing or rheumatoid-related deformities, splinting and exercises may improve position and function, and surgery is sometimes considered.

Exercises often used for Boutonniere Deformity

These are exercises our physiotherapists commonly include. Which ones suit you, how many and in what order depends on your assessment and stage of recovery.

All elbow, wrist and hand exercises

Frequently asked questions