Trigger Finger
Somewhat like carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger involves a narrowing around a tendon that causes pain. Also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, trigger finger occurs when a finger or thumb sticks in a bent position and straightens quickly, much like pulling and releasing a trigger. In severe cases, the fingers lock in the bent position.
More common in women and people with diabetes, trigger finger occurs when the lubricating fluid in the finger (tenosynovium) becomes inflamed and narrows the space around the tendon. The unlubricated tendon, then catches in a bent position before popping straight, becoming more irritated each this this occurs.
What are the symptoms, and how is it treated?
Trigger finger symptoms include:
- Finger stiffness, usually in the morning
- Popping or clicking as the finger moves
- Bump or tenderness at the base of the affected finger
- Finger catching and popping straight
- Finger locking and sticking in a bent position
You’re more likely to experience trigger finger in the thumb or ring finger of your dominant hand. It is possible for both hands and multiple fingers to be involved.
Our orthopaedists will conduct a physical exam, asking you to open and close your hand, and will review your symptoms. For mild cases, splinting, finger exercises and avoiding repeated gripping can be recommended. More serious cases could require nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, steroid injections, a procedure that uses a needle to release the locked tendon, or surgery.
Many trigger finger release surgeries use minimally invasive techniques.
Dependable Orthopaedic Surgeons
Whether you’re concerned with trigger finger, or are in search of other orthopaedic services, schedule an appointment with one of our orthopaedic specialists at one of our seven convenient locations throughout the Triangle.