Dr BurkeWhat Is Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and a catching or locking sensation when bending or straightening the fingers or thumb. This happens when the tendon that controls finger movement becomes inflamed or irritated, making it difficult for the tendon to glide smoothly through the sheath surrounding it. The condition can affect any finger or thumb and is more common in people who perform repetitive gripping motions or have underlying health conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we offer specialized care for trigger finger, using a variety of treatments to restore normal finger function and alleviate discomfort.
Trigger finger occurs when the flexor tendon, which is responsible for bending the fingers and thumb, becomes irritated or inflamed. This tendon normally glides smoothly through a protective sheath that allows for easy finger movement. However, when the tendon becomes swollen, it can get caught at the entrance of the sheath, causing the finger to catch or lock in a bent position. In severe cases, the finger may need to be manually straightened.
The condition is called “trigger finger” because the finger may suddenly snap straight after being bent, similar to pulling and releasing a trigger. Trigger finger can affect one or more fingers at the same time and can occur in both hands.
Causes of Trigger Finger
Trigger finger is often caused by repeated or prolonged stress on the fingers, but it can also develop due to underlying medical conditions. Common causes and risk factors include:
- Repetitive Gripping or Finger Movements: Individuals who frequently perform repetitive gripping motions, such as factory workers, musicians, or those using tools, are at higher risk of developing trigger finger.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain health conditions, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout, can increase the likelihood of developing trigger finger due to chronic inflammation or changes in the tendons.
- Age and Gender: Trigger finger is more common in individuals over 40 and tends to affect women more than men.
- Previous Hand Injuries: A history of hand or tendon injuries can make individuals more prone to developing trigger finger.
Symptoms of Trigger Finger
The symptoms of trigger finger often start gradually and may worsen over time, particularly with continued use of the affected finger. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Finger Stiffness: Stiffness in the affected finger, especially in the morning, is often the first symptom of trigger finger. The stiffness may make it difficult to bend or straighten the finger fully.
- Pain at the Base of the Finger: Pain is typically felt at the base of the affected finger or thumb, near the palm. This pain may increase with movement or pressure on the area.
- Clicking or Popping Sensation: A noticeable clicking or popping sensation may occur when moving the finger, particularly when bending or straightening it. This is caused by the tendon catching in the sheath.
- Locking or Catching: As the condition progresses, the affected finger may lock in a bent position and may only be straightened with difficulty or manual assistance. In severe cases, the finger may become stuck in a bent position.
- Tenderness and Swelling: The area around the affected tendon may become swollen and tender, making it painful to press on the finger or perform everyday tasks.
Diagnosis of Trigger Finger
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, diagnosing trigger finger involves a thorough physical examination and, in some cases, additional imaging tests to assess the extent of the condition and determine the best treatment plan.
1. Physical Examination: The doctor will examine the affected hand, checking for signs of tenderness, swelling, and triggering (locking or catching) during finger movement. They may ask you to bend and straighten your fingers to evaluate the severity of the condition.
2. Imaging Tests:
- Ultrasound: In some cases, an ultrasound may be used to provide detailed images of the tendon and its surrounding sheath, confirming the presence of inflammation or thickening.
- X-rays: While X-rays cannot show soft tissue injuries, they may be used to rule out other conditions, such as arthritis, that could be contributing to the finger stiffness or pain.
Treatment for Trigger Finger
Treatment for trigger finger at Dr. Burke Orthopedics focuses on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and restoring normal finger movement. Both non-surgical and surgical treatment options are available, depending on the severity of the condition.
1. Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing or avoiding activities that aggravate the finger, such as gripping or repetitive finger motions, is essential to allow the tendon to heal. Resting the affected hand can help prevent further irritation.
- Splinting: Wearing a splint at night can help keep the affected finger in a straight position and reduce stiffness in the morning. Splinting can also prevent the finger from locking in a bent position during sleep.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation in the affected tendon.
- Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretching exercises may be recommended to improve flexibility in the finger and prevent further stiffening. A physical therapist can provide exercises that are safe and effective for restoring finger function.
- Corticosteroid Injections: For more severe or persistent cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered directly into the tendon sheath to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. In many cases, corticosteroid injections can provide long-lasting relief, although repeat injections may be needed for some individuals.
2. Surgical Treatments: Surgery may be recommended if non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief or if the finger becomes severely locked in a bent position. Surgical options include:
- Percutaneous Release: This minimally invasive procedure involves using a needle to release the affected tendon from the surrounding sheath, allowing the tendon to move freely. It is often performed under local anesthesia and does not require stitches.
- Open Release Surgery: In more severe cases, open release surgery may be performed to cut the constricted part of the tendon sheath, creating more space for the tendon to move. This procedure is also typically done under local anesthesia and involves a small incision in the palm.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from trigger finger depends on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach. For non-surgical cases, most patients experience significant improvement within a few weeks to months with proper rest and activity modification.
- Non-Surgical Recovery: Patients undergoing non-surgical treatments typically experience gradual improvement in finger function and a reduction in pain. Splinting, stretching exercises, and corticosteroid injections can help restore normal movement and prevent further locking or catching. Most patients can return to their regular activities within 4-6 weeks, depending on the severity of the condition.
- Post-Surgical Recovery: For patients who undergo surgery, recovery times vary depending on the procedure. After surgery, the finger may be bandaged for a few days to allow healing, and a physical therapy program may be recommended to restore strength and flexibility. Most patients experience significant relief from symptoms after surgery and can return to their normal activities within a few weeks to months.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide personalized rehabilitation programs tailored to each patient’s needs, ensuring a full recovery and a return to pain-free movement.
Why Choose Dr. Burke Orthopedics for Trigger Finger?
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we offer expert care for patients with trigger finger, providing both conservative and surgical treatment options based on the severity of the condition. Our team of orthopedic specialists is dedicated to helping patients relieve pain, restore hand function, and prevent future issues. With advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans, we ensure that each patient receives the best possible care for their specific condition. Whether you need non-surgical management or advanced surgical options, Dr. Burke Orthopedics is here to guide you through your recovery journey.