title: Conservative treatment of mallet finger: A systematic review.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To determine if there is a superior orthosis and wearing regimen for the conservative treatment of mallet finger injuries. The secondary purpose is to examine the current evidence to evaluate if a night orthosis is necessary following the initial immobilization phase.
  
  
  METHODS
  A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the search terms mallet finger, splint, orthosis, and conservative treatment.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the systematic review. In all 4 RCTs mallet fingers were immobilized continuously for 6 weeks in acute injuries and 8 weeks for chronic injuries.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Two of the three studies found a large effect size for orthotic intervention ranging from 2.17 to 12.12. Increased edema and age and decreased patient adherence seem to negatively influence DIP extension gains. Recommended immobilization duration is between 6 to 8 weeks and with additional weeks of immobilization in cases of persistent lags.
  
  
  METHODS
  1a.
authors.affiliation: Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Hand Works Therapy, 744the Rialto, Venice, FL 34285, USA. Electronic address: hotglassgal@comcast.net.
authors.forename: Kristin
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Valdes
authors.affiliation: Professional Orthopedics Associates, Scranton, PA, USA.
authors.forename: Nancy
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Naughton
authors.affiliation: Northeast Orthopaedic and Hand Surgery, Waterbury, CT, USA.
authors.forename: Lori
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Algar
mesh_terms: D005383:Finger Injuries / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D009989:Orthotic Devices; D013708:Tendon Injuries / Q000628:therapy*
keywords: Conservative treatment; Extensor tendon; Mallet finger; Orthosis