Imagine trying to grip a pen or shake someone’s hand, only to feel your finger suddenly lock or catch. This is what many people with trigger finger experience in their everyday lives.
Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, occurs when the tendons in your finger or thumb become inflamed. This swelling makes it difficult for the tendon to glide smoothly, causing a painful snapping sensation.
Discussing your options for trigger finger treatment with a hand specialist is important. It is the first step toward getting your hand back to normal.
What is Trigger Finger?
According to Cleveland Clinic, trigger finger is the swelling of the tendon or the protective sheath around it. As a result, the tendon is unable to slide smoothly back into the protective sheath. The affected fingers can freeze in one position, as if you were pulling a trigger.
Trigger finger is common in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60. Known risk factors are repetitive hand movements and grasping and gripping motions. The use of force when doing these activities can result in trigger finger.
Trigger finger not only affects your ability to perform simple tasks but can also impact your quality of life. If left untreated, the condition may worsen over time, leading to permanent stiffness or limited finger movement.
Early detection and proper management are crucial for minimizing the impact of trigger finger on your personal and professional lives.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Here are some of the symptoms of trigger finger:
- Pain and Discomfort: Trigger finger causes pain and an unusual ache in the palm when moving the affected finger.
- Snapping Sound: A distinct snapping or clicking sound occurs as the finger is extended and flexed.
- Commonly Affected Fingers: The condition often affects the dominant hand, with the thumb and ring finger being the most commonly impacted.
- Finger Stuck in Position: In severe cases, the finger may become locked in a bent position, requiring the use of the other hand to straighten it.
If you have these symptoms, consult a hand specialist for trigger finger treatment. A diagnosis usually involves a physical examination, where the doctor will ask you to open and close your hand while observing for any locking or clicking sensations. They may also palpate the area for tenderness or swelling and order imaging tests.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
For many individuals, non-surgical methods are effective for relief from trigger finger symptoms.
1. Rest
Giving the affected finger time to rest on a regular basis can help reduce inflammation and allow the tendon to heal naturally.
2. Splinting
Splinting the finger helps to immobilize it, limiting movement and reducing strain on the tendon. This approach aims to alleviate inflammation and prevent further irritation of the tendon.
3. Corticosteroid Injections
Steroid injections are used to reduce inflammation in the tendon sheath. This treatment can provide significant relief, especially in less severe cases. However, it may not be a permanent solution, and symptoms could recur.
4. Hand Therapy Exercises
Hand exercises can be very helpful in getting back the flexibility and strength of the affected finger. These exercises are often recommended as a follow-up to less invasive treatments or in combination with them. Hand therapists guide you through the exercises for maximum benefit.
Surgical Options
In cases where non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief, trigger finger surgery may be recommended. The surgical procedure is called a trigger finger release surgery.
Trigger finger surgery involves releasing the affected tendon sheath to allow the tendon to move freely. The surgeon makes incisions around the affected tendon to allow it to move freely through the sheath.
Tigger finger surgery is generally effective in resolving symptoms and achieving full range of motion.
Lifestyle Modifications
Changing your lifestyle can help prevent trigger finger. These changes can help prevent this condition:
- Adjust Workstation: Position keyboard and mouse at elbow height; use ergonomic tools with cushioned grips.
- Regular Breaks: Take frequent breaks to stretch hands and fingers, reducing strain.
- Task Rotation: Rotate tasks to avoid repetitive movements that stress the fingers.
- Ergonomic Tools at Home: Use kitchen utensils and gardening tools with comfortable, ergonomic handles.
- Limit Gripping: Avoid repetitive and prolonged gripping and grasping at work or home. Be mindful of this when you are cleaning, gardening, and cooking.
- Daily Hand Exercises: Incorporate hand stretches and strengthening exercises to maintain flexibility and reduce tendon stress.
Making conscious changes in your daily life can go a long way in preventing trigger finger. Be proactive about protecting your hands to enjoy an active, pain-free life.
Trigger finger can be a challenging condition, especially for working professionals who rely heavily on their hands. If you are experiencing symptoms of trigger finger, consult a hand specialist who can put you on the path to recovery.
Trigger Finger Treatment in Montgomery County, Maryland
Reach out to The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division today. We have some of the most skilled hand specialists and hand therapists in Maryland.
Our friendly staff can connect you to Dr. Peter G. Fitzgibbons, our board-certified hand and upper extremity specialist. Dr. Fitzgibbons is a well-known orthopedic surgeon with exceptional skill and dedication in treating hand conditions such as trigger finger. He treats patients throughout Bethesda and Germantown and is accepting new patients.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Fitzgibbons for trigger finger treatment, call our office today at (301) 515-0900 or schedule your appointment online. We look forward to making a positive change in your life!