The flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) is a muscle that has 4 tendons with one tendon attaching to the end of each finger on the palm side of the hand. A ruptured FDP tendon results in a person being unable to actively bend the end of their finger. This injury can occur when a player grabs another player’s jersey with the tips of one or more fingers while that player is pulling or running away. The force of this action can partially or completely rupture the FDP tendon at or near its attachment point. The torn FDP tendon can retract slightly, remaining in the finger, or can retract more fully into the palm of the hand.
This injury requires surgical repair as soon as possible!
After surgery, where the tendon is re-attached to the bone, a 3 month period of rehabilitation begins. Hand therapy is an integral part of this rehabilitation. A custom made splint is provided to protect the repair, the patient is taught how to manage their scar and swelling, while a gradual movement and exercise programme is commenced and monitored
