Volar Plate Injury
A sprain or tear of the strong tissue on the palm side of a finger joint, commonly after the finger is bent backwards.
What happens
The volar plate helps prevent excessive hyperextension of the proximal interphalangeal joint. A sudden backward force can stretch or tear it and may pull off a small piece of bone.
Symptoms
Pain and swelling are usually greatest on the palm side of the PIP joint. Bruising and reduced motion are common.
Diagnosis
Examination checks joint stability and tendon function. X-rays identify avulsion fractures and confirm that the joint is aligned.
Treatment
Stable injuries are often treated with buddy taping or an extension-blocking splint followed by early controlled movement. The exact protection depends on stability.
When surgery is considered
Large unstable fracture-dislocations, irreducible joints or injuries that cannot maintain alignment may require operative treatment.
Recovery
PIP-joint swelling and stiffness can last much longer than the initial pain. Rehabilitation aims to restore motion while preventing recurrent hyperextension.