Trigger Finger Treatment

What is trigger finger?

Stenosing tenosynovitis (trigger finger) is a condition that affects causes pain and stiffness in the fingers. It most commonly affects the ring finger and thumb, which can appear to get stuck in a bent position. It can also affect other fingers and can also lock other fingers in place.

It look like you’re about to grip a coffee cup or squeeze a trigger.

Who gets trigger finger or trigger thumb?

Trigger fingers are more common in people who perform demanding work or perform repetitive motions. Musicians, farmers, and industrial workers are more likely to have trigger fingers or thumbs. Even hobbies that demand a lot of clutching can cause your fingers to lock up.

It’s more likely to affect you if you are between 40 and 60 have gout, osteoarthritis, diabetes, or rheumatoid arthritis.

Symptoms of trigger finger

Do you think you’ve got a trigger finger? The following notes list the more common signs and symptoms of trigger finger. One or more of these may look familiar to you.

• When you move your finger(s) or thumb, you may hear a popping or snapping sound.
• The palm of your hand will get sore, swell, or become sensitive. You’ll feel it at the base of your finger or thumb when you grip something.
• There will be some discomfort when you bend your finger because it’s stiff. It doesn’t happen often, but your fingers could lock up while flexing them, and you’ll need assistance straightening them out.
• Sometimes you won’t be able to stretch out the finger fully.

The stiff feeling is worse in the mornings, but the good news is it gets better during the day the more you use your hand.

What causes trigger finger?

The simple answer is one of the tendons that run along with your fingers and thumbs becomes inflamed. The swelling makes it harder for the damaged tendon to pass through its membrane (tendon sheath), resulting in trigger finger pain and stiffness. The tendon can then become trapped, causing the affected finger or thumb to become stuck in a bent posture.

Trigger finger, arthritis, or carpal tunnel?

The doctor will make the determination, but there are ways you can tell the difference between carpal tunnel, arthritis, or trigger finger.

• Carpal tunnel syndrome affects the wrist, forearm, and a few fingers in addition to your hands. The discomfort, numbness, and weakness you feel will worsen over time.
• Arthritis affects the joints, so you may notice the fingers are swollen and stiff where the fingers bend
• Trigger finger is a condition that affects one of the fingers or the thumb, locking the joint in an uncomfortable position and making even simple movements difficult.

Your doctor will examine your hand by opening and closing it, evaluating any areas of pain, and looking for any evidence of locking. Your doctor will study the detailed movements and restrictions to movement in your fingers and thumb. Imaging (tests) are usually not required to confirm the initial diagnosis of a trigger finger.

Trigger finger treatment options

What can I do at home to relieve trigger finger?

Doctors and physical therapists may recommend simple exercises that help stretch the fingers and alleviate pain and stiffness.

Non-surgical options

Depending on the severity of your issue, trigger finger treatment might range from rest to surgery. Treat trigger fingers without surgery by resting your hands, wearing a splint at night, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and a steroid injection.

Trigger finger surgery

The trigger finger release process is pain-free and fast. It is also highly effective.

You’ll be given a local anaesthetic to numb the region, but you are not required to remain overnight. A local anaesthetic will most likely numb the area. The surgeon will cut the tendon sheath and release it through a tiny incision in the palm. The idea is to allow the tendon to move more freely.