Trigger Finger
Trigger finger, medically known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition where one or more fingers get stuck in a bent position, causing difficulty in straightening or flexing them. It occurs when the tendon sheath becomes inflamed or swollen, leading to a narrowing of the tunnel through which the tendon passes. As a result, the affected finger may snap or pop when attempting to straighten it, resembling the action of pulling and releasing a trigger.
Common symptoms include pain, stiffness, and a clicking sensation. Treatment options range from rest and splinting to corticosteroid injections or surgical release of the affected tendon sheath.
FAQs About Trigger Finger
What causes trigger finger?
Trigger finger often stems from repetitive gripping motions, inflammation due to overuse, or conditions like arthritis, causing the tendon sheath in the finger to become inflamed and narrow, resulting in difficulty moving the finger smoothly.
What are the symptoms of trigger finger?
Symptoms of trigger finger encompass finger stiffness, a palpable or audible clicking or popping sensation during movement, discomfort or tenderness, and challenges extending or flexing the finger fully.
How is trigger finger diagnosed?
Diagnosis of trigger finger typically involves a comprehensive assessment by a healthcare provider, including a physical examination to evaluate symptoms, range of motion, and potential clicking or locking of the finger, supplemented by imaging tests like ultrasound to confirm tendon sheath inflammation.
What are the treatment options for trigger finger?
Various treatment options are available for trigger finger, ranging from conservative approaches like rest, splinting, and corticosteroid injections to alleviate inflammation, to more invasive measures such as hand exercises and surgical release of the affected tendon sheath for severe or persistent cases.
Is trigger finger a permanent condition?
While trigger finger can be persistent without intervention, it's not always a permanent condition. Timely treatment and management can often alleviate symptoms and improve finger function, but recurrent or severe cases may require ongoing care.
Can trigger finger go away on its own?
Although trigger finger can occasionally resolve spontaneously, persistent symptoms may necessitate medical intervention for effective management and resolution, particularly if conservative measures fail to provide relief.
How long does it take to recover from trigger finger treatment?
Recovery time following treatment for trigger finger varies based on factors like the severity of the condition, the chosen treatment method, and individual healing response, typically spanning several weeks to months for complete rehabilitation.
Can trigger finger be prevented?
Preventive measures for trigger finger involve minimizing activities that involve repetitive gripping or grasping motions, practicing hand exercises to maintain strength and flexibility, using ergonomic tools or equipment, and seeking prompt treatment for early symptoms to prevent exacerbation.
What should I do if I suspect I have trigger finger?
If trigger finger is suspected, seeking evaluation by a healthcare professional is crucial for accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment recommendations aimed at addressing symptoms effectively and preventing complications.
Trigger Finger Treatment in Montgomery County, Maryland
Struggling with trigger finger? Receive specialized care at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division. Call (301) 515-0900 or schedule your appointment online to meet with a physician at our Bethesda or Germantown locations. Our dedicated team is committed to providing effective treatment options to alleviate discomfort and restore functionality to your hand.
Other Hand & Wrist Conditions
- Hand & Wrist Arthritis
- Hand & Wrist Tendonitis
- Hand & Wrist Fractures
- Forearm Fractures
- Hand Dislocation
- Hand & Wrist Tendon Laceration
- Dupuytren's Contracture
- Trigger Finger
- Mucous Cyst
- Retinacular Cyst
- Skier’s Thumb
- Mallet Finger
- Carpal Tunnel
- De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
- Scaphoid Fracture
- TFCC Injury