Mallet finger is an injury that involves the extensor tendon and occurs at the distal Interphalangeal Joint (DIP). This injury is caused by opposing forces exerted on the extensor tendon resulting in a rupture (or avulsion fracture) on the extensor tendon at its insertion point into the distal phalanx. The classic presentation is that a patient will have a drooping DIP joint and will be unable to actively or resistively keep the distal phalanx in a straight position. Treatment is placing the DIP joint in terminal extension to allow the ruptures tendon to heal. If the mallet finger injury involves a bony portion of the distal phalanx, surgery may be needed to correct this type of injury. Recovery time, regardless of treatment options, is usually 6-8 weeks.