Evaluation and treatment of jersey finger and pulley injuries in athletes.

The flexor tendon system in the finger is complex and can be difficult to treat. Closed injuries to the flexor tendon or pulley system are not uncommon in high-level athletes. Their treatment can be complicated by in-season play, position, and the number of people involved in the patient's care. Injuries can be misdiagnosed as "sprains" or unreported by some athletes at the time of injury. Some of these injuries, especially flexor tendon avulsions, require prompt recognition and appropriate treatment to prevent permanent disability to the hand and finger.