The Swan Neck Deformity is a common deformity of the fingers that can occur under several types of circumstances. Most commonly associated with arthritis, Swan Neck Deformities occur as the joints and soft connective tissues of the finger become affected by the inflammation that occurs with arthritis. The normal alignment of the finger becomes compromised as the middle finger joint (PIP joint) is pulled into hyperextension (is bent slightly backwards). Concurrently, the distal DIP joint (the joint toward the tip of the finger) is then forced into a position of flexion as the normal connective tissue alignment changes. It is this deformity that, when viewed from the side, takes the shape of that of a swan’s neck.