Understanding Flexor Tendon Injuries: Can't Bend My Thumb After Cutting a Tendon

On a sunny summer day in 2018, I found myself in a very unfortunate situation. While working around the yard, I cut my thumb, right below the middle crease. The aftermath of that injury has significantly impacted my thumb's functionality, making it difficult for me to bend the tip of my thumb. This article will explore the nature of flexor tendon injuries, their impact on thumb movement, and the necessary steps to address such a condition.

The Impact of a Flexor Tendon Injury

After cutting my thumb, I noticed an immediate inability to bend the tip of my thumb. My thumb remained free to move around the hand, but the inability to bend the tip was a stark reminder of the severity of the injury. Despite the thumb's flexibility, I could only move the tip about 15–20 degrees if I supported the thumb below the crease, and each attempt brought a sharp pain to the cut area.

What Are Flexor Tendons?

To fully understand the impact of my injury and why it's affecting my thumb so significantly, it's important to know what flexor tendons are and how they function. Flexor tendons are like the strings in a puppet. They attach the muscles of the hand to the bones, allowing the thumb to flex and perform its various functions. When one of these "strings" is cut, it severely restricts the thumb's ability to move as intended.

The Importance of Proper Surgical Repair

Flexor tendon injuries often require urgent medical attention. In my case, the cut was deep enough to impair the function of the flexor tendon, leading to a permanent loss of thumb flexion if not properly addressed. Failure to undergo surgical repair can result in long-term complications and a diminished quality of life. Cutting the flexor tendon not only affects the thumb but also impacts the overall hand function, making even simple tasks, such as using a smartphone, difficult.

The Surgical Assessment and Repair Process

The surgical assessment and repair of a flexor tendon injury typically involve a series of steps:

Initial Evaluation: A thorough examination of the thumb and surrounding areas to assess the extent of the injury and the viability of the tendon for repair. Surgical Intervention: The injured tendon is repaired under sterile conditions, often with the use of small sutures to reconnect the severed tendon. Post-Surgical Care: Recovery involves protecting the repaired tendon while it heals, which may include immobilization with casts or splints, and strict adherence to physical therapy exercises to regain thumb function.

Following surgery, it's crucial to adhere to the post-operative care instructions to ensure the best possible outcome. Early rehabilitation is key to regaining full thumb function and minimizing the risk of complications.

Conclusion

Flexor tendon injuries can severely impact thumb function and overall hand mobility. After cutting my thumb in 2018, I quickly realized the importance of proper medical intervention. For those who have experienced a similar injury, seeking prompt medical care and following through with necessary surgical assessment and repair can significantly improve long-term outcomes and quality of life.