What is Swan Neck Deformity?

Swan neck deformity is a condition in the fingers that causes them to bend abnormally. With swan neck deformity, there is a “hyperextension” of the middle joint of the finger, meaning it bends back beyond its normal range, and “flexion” of the end joint of the finger, meaning it cannot fully extend. Orlin & Cohen’s occupational therapists Briana Ardolino, MOT, OTR,/L, CHT and Hamlet Aristy BS/MS, OTR/L, explain swan neck deformity, share treatment options, and, overall, what to expect.

What causes swan neck deformity?

Swan neck deformity is often caused by weakness or tearing of the ligament in the middle joint of the finger. Over time, it gets harder for your tendons to keep the joint straight. That causes the joint to bend abnormally. This can be caused by many factors, including:

• Rheumatoid arthritis – a disorder where joints become inflamed, leading to pain and deformity of the joints.
• Traumatic injury – a ruptured finger tendon, or a fracture in your finger that heals poorly
• Untreated finger injury

How is swan neck deformity treated?

Depending on the nature and severity of the injury, swan neck deformities can be treated with hand therapy and by splinting to correct the joint deformities. To fix swan neck deformity in severe cases, there are surgical options. These include tendon stabilizations, joint replacement, or even joint fusions.

Unfortunately, in many cases of swan neck deformity – even after surgery and hand therapy – joint deformities may remain. If left untreated, however, lasting deformities can become stiff and cause a “contracture” to the finger, meaning a fixed, lasting tightening and stiffening of the joint, ligaments, tendons, or skin.

Why live with swan neck deformity?

Orlin & Cohen has assembled a team of board-certified, fellowship-trained hand, wrist, and elbow specialists from the nation’s top programs together with experienced hand therapists and on-site diagnostics – so patients can get the treatment they need, including for swan neck deformities.

If you think you may have swan neck deformity, request an appointment. Our network of offices is open seven days a week and includes in-house occupational therapy, so it’s easy and convenient to get the care you need with same-day appointments and walk-in, after-hours care.