When you have trigger finger, your finger—usually your pinky, ring finger, or thumb—can become stuck in a bent position. Researchers don’t know precisely why some people develop the condition, though there are treatments that can help.
The skilled and experienced providers at Ortho 1 Medical Group focus on the least invasive treatment options to help you recover as quickly as possible. Our hand specialists know that trigger finger can make it difficult to complete routine tasks, and the condition can be painful. Here, they offer advice on how you may be able to prevent the condition from getting worse.
Each finger has a tendon that connects the muscles that control it to the bones. The tendons pass through a sheath that keeps them close to the bone, protects them, and allows them to slide smoothly when you bend and straighten them.
If the tendon becomes inflamed and swollen, it can pass through the sheath, allowing you to bend your finger toward your palm. However, it can also slide back, and your finger will be stuck in the bent position. You may be able to straighten it using your other hand.
Sometimes, a small bump or nodule forms at the base of the finger on the tendon, making it even harder for it to pass through the sheath.
Although scientists don’t know exactly why some people get trigger finger, they have identified some people who are at a higher risk. Women, for example, develop trigger finger more often than men. Also, people who:
However, developing trigger finger without any of these conditions is also possible.
In mild cases or with an early diagnosis, you may get better without any treatment. If you simply rest your hands and fingers and allow the inflammation to subside, your finger may heal on its own.
If simply resting your hand doesn’t provide relief, the next step is to consider non-surgical interventions. Your doctor may suggest wearing a splint at night. Trigger finger is often worst in the mornings because fluid tends to pool when you’re at rest. A splint can prevent your finger from locking while you sleep.
If you can take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen or naproxen, your doctor may recommend that to help with the pain and help with lowering the inflammation.
You may be able to do exercises and stretches at home or under the supervision of a physical therapist. Specific techniques can help you safely increase your range of motion.
In some cases, especially when the condition is diagnosed early, a corticosteroid injection can help relieve your symptoms and reduce the inflammation causing them.
Finally, if none of those treatment approaches provides relief, your doctor may recommend surgery. Surgery to correct trigger finger has a high success rate, mainly when your surgeon is as highly qualified and experienced as those at Ortho 1 Medical Group.
If you have questions about trigger finger treatments, schedule an appointment at either our San Diego or Coronado office. We’re always happy to offer advice and guidance based on your unique situation.
