Final answer:
The athlete's symptoms are indicative of a mallet finger injury, caused by damage to the extensor tendon at the DIP joint, likely from repetitive motion or a direct blow to the finger. Tendinitis is also a related risk for individuals performing repetitive movements.
Step-by-step explanation:
The signs and symptoms described by the student suggest a condition known as mallet finger, which is an injury to the extensor mechanism of the finger at the level of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint. This injury results in an inability to actively extend the DIP joint, though passive extension is still possible. Point tenderness on the dorsal aspect of the DIP joint and the inability to actively extend the joint are classic indicators of this injury. Persons involved in activities with repetitive movements, such as certain athletes, are at risk for tendinitis, which can lead to injuries like mallet finger.
Mallet finger can occur when the extensor tendon at this joint is damaged, often due to a direct blow to the finger or forceful flexion during extension. Tendinitis is another connective tissue disorder that presents with pain and can result from overuse or repetitive motion, leading to microtrauma and an inflammatory response. For mallet finger, treatment may involve splinting the finger in extension, while tendinitis treatment includes rest, ice, compression, elevation (PRICE guidelines), NSAIDs, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgical intervention.