Tendon Grafting Treatment in India

Olivia Singh, a 28-year-old elementary school...

Olivia Singh, a 28-year-old elementary school teacher and avid rock climber, suffered a traumatic fall while bouldering 18 months ago, tearing multiple ligaments and the flexor tendon in her right ring finger. Despite initial surgery to repair the tendon, it failed to heal properly, leaving her with a painful, stiff 'mallet finger' that couldn't bend. She could no longer demonstrate crafts to her students, hold a climbing rope, or even make a full fist. Her orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Chen, explained that the scarred, non-functional tendon needed to be replaced with a tendon graft, likely taken from her wrist. Olivia was terrified of another surgery failing and losing more function. The procedure was long and the initial recovery in a rigid splint was frustrating. However, through months of dedicated hand therapy, she gradually regained about 80% of her flexion. While her elite climbing days are over, she can now hold chalk, write on the board comfortably, and give high-fives to her students, small victories that feel monumental. Her journey moved from anger and despair over her injury to a hard-won acceptance and profound gratitude for the regained, usable function in her hand.