Trigger finger. Runner’s knee. Tennis elbow. It seems like for every injury, there’s an overly simplistic term to describe it.
In this blog, we’re discussing the meaning of “trigger finger”, how it happens, and what you can do to make it better.
What is Trigger Finger?
Each of our fingers has tendons that go from the base of each finger to the fingertips. They allow us to move and bend our fingers any time we want to grab, hold, or point at something. Each tendon is covered by a protective sheath. If this sheath is injured, it’ll become inflamed. When this happens, a person won’t be able to fully extend the injured finger. This is called trigger finger or sometimes trigger thumb. The medical term for trigger finger is stenosing tenosynovitis.
Trigger Finger Causes
Trigger finger could be caused by repetitive motions, such as what occurs in the following jobs:
- Carpenters
- Musicians
- Dentists
- Secretaries
- Stenographers
- Construction
- Assembly lines
- Gardening
Trigger finger is also more likely to occur in people who have an underlying medical condition, such as:
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Gout
Trigger Finger Symptoms
You may have trigger finger if you notice a limited range of motion or an inability to fully extend a finger or fingers. This is accompanied by one or more of the following symptoms:
- Redness
- Pain at the base of fingers
- Clicking sensation when you move your fingers
- Stiffness
- Swelling
Non-Surgical Treatment for Trigger Finger
The most common method for treating trigger finger is to ice the area and immobilize it with a splint. Your doctor may also recommend over-the-counter medication.
If the symptoms don’t subside after a few weeks, the person may want to try cortisone injections. If after all of these treatments, your finger gets better, your orthopedic doctor may recommend physical therapy.
Surgical Treatment for Trigger Finger
Surgery is always a last resort. There are three types of surgery available for patients with trigger finger, and they all require only local anesthesia. The patient is also likely to be able to return home that same day.
Request an Appointment at The Orthopedic Clinic Today
Being able to move your fingers without any pain is essential to do your daily activities. At The Orthopedic Clinic, we want you to live your life in full motion.
Call us at (386) 255-4596 to schedule an appointment.