Trigger finger, scientifically known as stenotic tenosynovitis, affects the tendons in the fingers or thumb, causing pain, stiffness and a locking or trapping sensation when the finger is bent or extended. The condition can make it difficult for patients to carry out daily activities and can significantly affect their quality of life, so effective treatment is extremely important.
Trigger finger occurs when inflammation narrows the space within the sheath surrounding the tendon in the affected finger. Each tendon in the hand is surrounded by a protective sheath that facilitates smooth movement. However, if this sheath becomes inflamed, the tendon is no longer able to slide easily, causing the finger to catch or lock before it opens.
The tendons responsible for finger movement start in the forearm and end in the hand. They are surrounded by a series of pulleys that hold them close to the bone and allow the fingers to move efficiently. Inflammation of these pulleys, particularly the A1 pulley at the base of the finger, causes the trigger finger.
What causes the trigger finger?
Trigger finger is usually the result of repetitive movement or heavy use of the finger or thumb. However, other factors may also be responsible for its occurrence. Some of them are:
- Activities involving prolonged gripping or repeated use of the hand.
- Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout and diabetes can cause the condition of ejected toe.
- The condition is more common in people aged 40 to 60 and in those whose work or hobbies require repetitive use of the hands.
What are the symptoms of the trigger finger?
The symptoms of trigger finger vary in intensity and appearance from patient to patient and can range from mild to severe. They usually progress from occasional discomfort to more frequent pain and locking of the fingers. Common symptoms include:
- Pain and tenderness, felt at the base of the finger or thumb.
- Stiffness, which is particularly noticeable in the morning or when bending the finger.
- In severe cases, the finger may lock in a bent position.
The diagnosis of the condition is mainly made and completed in the doctor's office, based on the symptoms and the physical examination of the hand. Imaging tests are rarely necessary unless another condition is suspected.
How is trigger finger treated?
Treatment options can be either conservative or surgical, depending on the severity of the condition in each patient.
Conservative treatments
- Rest and avoidance of activities that require repetitive gripping to reduce inflammation.
- Use of a splint at night to keep the affected finger in a normal position, relieving symptoms.
- Mild stretching and strengthening exercises to reduce symptoms and improve finger mobility.
- Medication with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and inflammation.
Non-surgical treatments
- Injections of corticosteroids into the tendon sheath to reduce inflammation.
Surgical treatment
Surgery is recommended in cases where conservative treatments fail to produce the desired results. Surgery to treat trigger finger involves a small incision at the base of the affected finger, from which the surgeon cuts away the narrowed portion at the tendon sheath. This treatment is highly effective, with most patients enjoying full restoration of movement in their finger.
Prevention tips
Although not all cases of trigger finger can be prevented, especially when they are the result of chronic conditions, some strategies can reduce the risk:
- Use of tools and equipment that reduce finger strain
- Take breaks in between heavy strain of the hand, in order the fingers can rest
- Exercises and stretch of the fingers for a few hours at a time.
Trigger finger is manageable with a range of treatment options depending on the severity of symptoms. To find out more about the management of trigger finger, contact us at 6943903343 (secretariat), 6949196061 (doctor) or orthopedikos-papagiannopoulos.gr and make an appointment.
