NBCOT Upper Extremity Practice Test

Immobilizing the DIP in full extension gives the extensor mechanism the proper position and time to heal after a mallet finger. The typical duration is six to eight weeks, which provides enough healing time for the tendon (or tendon-to-bone) to reattach without the tug of DIP flexion pulling it apart again. After this period, gradual, protected ROM is started to restore motion while still protecting the repair. Shorter immobilization can lead to incomplete healing and persistent DIP flexion deformity or lag, while immobilization lasting much longer increases the risk of joint stiffness and reduced ROM.