Have you ever woken up with a finger stuck in a bent position, unable to straighten it without
pain? This frustrating phenomenon is called trigger finger, a condition that can significantly
impact your daily activities. But fear not, there are solutions! This blog post dives into trigger
finger, its causes, and explores surgical management as a treatment option.
What is Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger occurs when a thickened tendon sheath within your finger inflames and
narrows. This inflamed sheath hinders the smooth gliding of the flexor tendon, which bends
your finger. The result? A finger that gets stuck in a bent position, often accompanied by a
snapping sensation or a popping sound when attempting to straighten it.
What Causes Trigger Finger?
The exact cause of trigger finger remains unclear, but several factors can contribute to its
development:
- Repetitive hand movements: Jobs or activities that involve repetitive gripping or
pinching can irritate the tendon sheath, leading to inflammation. - Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes
can increase the risk of trigger finger. - Age: Trigger finger is more common in people over 50 years old.
Symptoms of Trigger Finger:
The hallmark symptom of trigger finger is a finger that gets stuck in a bent position,
especially upon waking up in the morning. Other symptoms may include:
- Pain and tenderness at the base of the finger
- A popping or snapping sensation when moving the finger
- Difficulty gripping or pinching objects
Treatment Options for Trigger Finger:
The good news is that trigger finger can be effectively treated with various approaches,
depending on the severity:
- Non-surgical options: These often include splinting, steroid injections to reduce
inflammation, and physical therapy to improve flexibility. - Surgical management: If non-surgical options fail to provide relief, surgery may be
recommended.
Surgical Management of Trigger Finger:
Trigger finger surgery is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure performed under local
anesthesia. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process:
- The surgeon makes a small incision in the palm of your hand near the affected
finger. - They carefully cut through the thickened tendon sheath, allowing the tendon to
glide freely again. - The incision is then closed with stitches.
Recovery after Trigger Finger Surgery:
Recovery after trigger finger surgery is typically quick. You might experience some
discomfort for a few days, but you should be able to use your hand relatively soon after the
procedure. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on wound care, exercises to regain
mobility, and any limitations you may need to follow.
Living a Finger-Trigger-Free Life
Trigger finger can be a frustrating condition, but with proper treatment, you can regain full
use of your finger and get back to enjoying your daily activities. Don’t hesitate to discuss all
treatment options, including surgical management, with your doctor to find the solution that
best suits your needs.
Considering Trigger Finger Surgery?
If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms of trigger finger that are impacting your daily life,
consult our upper limb expert. They will discuss your individual case and determine if
surgical management is the best course of action for you