What is Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition in which the tendons that flex the fingers and thumb become inflamed, making it hard for the flexor tendon to glide through the tendon sheath. When bands of tissues called pulleys become inflamed, especially the A1 pulley, patients experience trouble straightening their fingers.

Trigger finger that causes digit locks, or your fingers to become stuck in a bent position, often causes patients pain. They may also experience additional symptoms such as catching or popping sensations. If you are experiencing trigger finger, it’s best to seek treatment from a hand specialist as soon as possible to determine treatment options.

Causes

There is about a 2% to 3% chance of being affected by trigger finger in your lifetime. For those with diabetes, the risk increases to 10%. Women are more likely than men to be impacted by trigger finger, often in their 50s or 60s. While trigger finger is not entirely preventable, understanding the causes of trigger finger allows you to take preventative measures to protect the movement of your fingers.

The most common causes of trigger finger include:

  • Gender: women are more likely than men to experience trigger finger
  • Age: trigger finger is more common in age 50 and up
  • Previous injury: former injuries occurring in the base of the finger or palm put you more at risk
  • Diabetes: this condition increases your risk to 10% in your lifetime
  • Arthritis: including other problems impacted your immune system that cause pain or stiffness in your joints
  • Amyloidosis: abnormal protein buildup in your tissues or organs
  • Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism): hormonal condition in which your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones
  • Carpal tunnel: a progressive condition in which the median nerve in the hand is squeezed
  • Dupuytren’s contracture: Abnormal thickening of the fascia in the palm of the hand to the base of the fingers

While not every cause of trigger finger offers a preventative measure, knowing when you are most at risk allows you to seek treatment sooner if you begin to feel symptoms. Treating your trigger finger early prevents the condition from worsening.

Symptoms

Mild to severe symptoms of trigger finger are similar to other hand and finger conditions. At your appointment, your hand doctor will diagnose you before determining the best treatment. The most common symptoms of trigger finger include:

  • Stiffness in the impacted finger
  • Popping or clicking sensation when the finger moves
  • Pain or tenderness at the base of the affected finger
  • At least one finger stuck in a bent position or suddenly popping straight
  • At least one finger being unable to fully bend or straighten
  • Lump in the palm at the base of an affected finger

Especially upon notice of popping, catching, or pain, make an appointment with a hand specialist. Milder cases offer simpler treatment options. If left untreated and your symptoms become severe, you may require surgery or other extensive treatment.

Trigger Finger Treatment

There are several treatment options for trigger finger depending on whether you exhibit mild or severe symptoms. Mild symptoms of trigger finger may not require surgery. Regardless, patients should consult with a medical professional for the best treatment options based on their symptoms.

Rest

In the most mild of trigger finger cases, taking a break from activities that require use of the affected fingers may be the best first option. This gives your tendons time to heal before using them again, whereas continuous use can cause further strain on these tendons.

Splints

Splints are an effective treatment for trigger finger that helps your fingers stretch back into their usual position. This works best for mild to moderate cases of trigger finger. If the finger is too painful to straighten through the use of a splint, you may have to consider a different treatment option. Always communicate how you are feeling with your hand specialist to ensure you are receiving the right treatment for your symptoms.

Physical Therapy

Stretching exercises and other physical therapy activities may help your tendons regain flexibility. Safe, proper stretching is an effective treatment for mild to moderate trigger finger.

Medication

Because the cause of trigger finger sometimes comes from inflammatory issues, taking anti-inflammatory medication serves as one form of treatment for trigger finger. Reducing inflammation, coupled with rest or physical therapy, can help relieve pain while reducing swelling. Your hand specialist or other healthcare provider may be able to prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or cortisone shots. In addition, over-the-counter NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, may be effective treatment. Consult with your hand doctor before trying medication.

Surgery

Severe trigger finger might need surgery. This is often only used as treatment after trying another form of treatment. If those treatments don’t improve your symptoms, your doctor may suggest surgery next. It takes about six weeks on average to fully recover from trigger finger surgery. Consult with your hand surgeon about recovery time and the timeline for trigger finger surgery. This will help you best prepare for the procedure and recovery.