Trigger Finger

What is trigger finger?

Also called stenosing tenosynovitis, trigger finger is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving one or more fingers. Severe trigger finger may cause your finger to get locked or stuck in a bent position.

Trigger finger happens when the space surrounding the tendon that moves your finger becomes narrow from inflammation. When this condition affects your thumb, it’s called trigger thumb.

What are the symptoms of trigger finger?

Trigger finger symptoms can range from mild discomfort to an inability to straighten your finger. Depending on the severity of your condition, signs and symptoms of trigger finger may include:

• Pain and stiffness when you bend or straighten the finger
• A tender bump on your palm at the base of the finger
• A catching sensation when you bend or straighten the finger

Sometimes, your finger may become temporarily locked in a bent position and then suddenly snap straight. Symptoms of trigger finger tend to be worse first thing in the morning or after periods of rest.

What causes trigger finger?

Irritation and inflammation in the tendons that move your fingers cause trigger finger. This inflammation may result from repetitive activities that require strong gripping, such as playing drums.

Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis and diabetes, may increase your risk of developing trigger finger. Trigger finger may also be a complication of recent carpal tunnel syndrome surgery.

How do you diagnose and treat trigger finger?

First, your expert physician at Orthopaedic Associates thoroughly examines your hand and asks about your symptoms and medical history. They check for tenderness and swelling in your hand as well as any difficulty bending and straightening your finger.

Then, they develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Depending on the severity of your trigger finger, treatment may include:

• Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen
• Resting your hand
• Immobilization with a splint
• Stretching exercises for your hand
• Anti-inflammatory steroid injections

For severe cases of trigger finger that doesn’t get better with conservative therapies, the team at Orthopaedic Associates may recommend trigger finger release surgery.

If you have pain or stiffness in your hand, call Orthopaedic Associates or book an appointment online today.