What is trigger finger?
Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, causes one or more of your fingers or thumbs to get stuck in a bent position. It typically occurs in the thumb or ring finger but may affect multiple digits on both hands.
What causes trigger finger?
Trigger finger occurs when the fibrous cords of tissue (tendons) that attach muscle to bone and control finger or thumb movement become irritated or inflamed. Inflammation and swelling of the tendon sheath cause narrowing (stenosis), which can interfere with the normal gliding motion of a tendon. Prolonged irritation can result in scarring and nodules in the tendon itself, further restricting movement and eventually leading to a permanently bent digit.
What are the symptoms of trigger finger?
Trigger finger symptoms generally develop slowly, worsen over time, and may include:
- Stiffness and pain when bending the affected thumb or finger
- A snapping or popping sensation when you bend or straighten the digit
- Tenderness at the base of the affected finger or thumb
- A swollen and tender lump in the palm
These symptoms are usually worse in the morning or after prolonged inactivity and may lessen as you flex and straighten your fingers. However, the affected digits may lock in the bent position as the tendon damage worsens.
How do you treat trigger finger?
Depending on your symptoms, your North Point Orthopaedics provider may recommend resting from activities that can cause or worsen tendon irritation and inflammation. Splinting, gentle stretching exercises, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatories may also help. For more severe symptoms, a steroid injection can relieve inflammation and restore smoother motion of the tendon through the sheath. If problems persist or recur, in-office procedures or minimally invasive surgery may be recommended to open the narrowed tendon sheath.
Schedule a visit at North Point Orthopaedics today by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.