Trigger Finger
Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition characterized by the inflammation or narrowing of the tendon sheath in the finger, leading to difficulty in straightening or bending the affected finger smoothly. At Dr. Isaac Bone & Joint Speciality Hospital, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of trigger finger, offering personalized care to help patients regain comfortable finger movement and function.
The flexor tendons that control finger movement glide through protective sheaths called tendon sheaths. When these sheaths become inflamed or thickened, it can create friction, causing the tendon to catch or “trigger” during finger movement. This can result in a snapping sensation, pain, stiffness, or a locking sensation in the affected finger.
Trigger finger often develops gradually and may be associated with repetitive gripping or grasping activities, such as using tools, playing musical instruments, or typing on a keyboard.
It can also occur spontaneously or be linked to medical conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, or hand trauma.
Diagnosis of trigger finger typically involves a physical examination, assessment of symptoms, and may include imaging studies such as ultrasound to evaluate the anatomy of the finger and confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment of trigger finger depends on the severity of symptoms and may include conservative measures such as rest, activity modification, splinting to immobilize the affected finger, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, corticosteroid injections into the tendon sheath can help alleviate symptoms by reducing inflammation and allowing the tendon to glide more smoothly.
For persistent or severe cases of trigger finger that do not respond to conservative treatments, surgical intervention may be necessary. The surgical procedure, known as a trigger finger release or tenolysis, involves making a small incision in the tendon sheath to release the constriction and allow the tendon to move freely.
Following treatment, patients may undergo a period of rehabilitation to restore finger strength, flexibility, and function. Physical therapy exercises, stretching, and gradual return to activities are often recommended to promote recovery and prevent recurrence of symptoms.
At Dr. Isaac Bone & Joint Speciality Hospital, our team of hand specialists is dedicated to providing personalized care to patients with trigger finger. We utilize advanced diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities to ensure optimal outcomes and help patients regain comfortable finger movement and function.
