Trigger Finger

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Trigger finger occurs when tendons in the fingers or thumb become inflamed, causing the finger (or thumb) to lock or catch when bent. This condition can lead to pain, stiffness, and difficulty straightening the affected finger. Treatments ranging from splinting to surgery can alleviate symptoms and restore normal finger function.

Symptoms

Trigger finger can cause the following symptoms:

Pain at the base of the affected finger
Pain may worsen with movement
Stiffness
Difficulty bending or straightening the finger (especially in the morning)
Catching or locking in a bent position before suddenly straightening, often with a popping or clicking sensation
Swelling or tenderness, particularly near the palm

If you experience any of these symptoms, early diagnosis and treatment are essential to preventing further complications and maintaining hand function.

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Treatments

Treatment for trigger finger focuses on reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and restoring smooth tendon movement. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening.

Rest and Immobilization: Resting the affected finger and using a splint to immobilize it can help reduce inflammation and allow the tendon to heal. A splint may be worn at night to prevent the finger from locking.
Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with trigger finger. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections may provide temporary relief by reducing swelling around the affected tendon.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide exercises to improve flexibility and strengthen the tendons and surrounding tissue. PT may also include techniques to reduce strain during daily activities.
Surgery: For persistent or severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. Trigger finger release surgery involves making a small incision in the tendon sheath to release the tendon so that it may move freely. This procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, and recovery is usually quick.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What causes trigger finger?

Trigger finger is often caused by repetitive gripping motions, overuse of the hand, or prolonged pressure on the palm. It is more common in individuals with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.

How is trigger finger diagnosed?

Trigger finger is typically diagnosed through a physical examination. Your doctor may evaluate your range of motion, check for locking or catching in the finger, and assess pain or tenderness at the base of the affected finger.

Can trigger finger be prevented?

Trigger finger cannot always be prevented, but you can reduce your risk by taking breaks during repetitive tasks, avoiding prolonged gripping, and practicing proper ergonomics. Strengthening hand muscles may also help lower your risk of developing trigger finger.

How long does it take to recover from trigger finger?

The recovery time for trigger finger varies depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment method used. Mild cases of trigger finger may improve within a few weeks with conservative care, while recovery from trigger finger release surgery can take a few months.

Will I need surgery for trigger finger?

Surgery is usually reserved for severe cases that do not respond to conservative treatments like splinting, medications, or physical therapy. Most people with trigger finger experience significant improvement with non-surgical treatments and do not need surgery.

How can I manage trigger finger at home?

Home care for trigger finger can include resting the affected finger, applying ice to reduce swelling, and performing gentle stretching exercises to improve flexibility. Wearing a splint or taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications may also help alleviate symptoms.

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