Keep your mind and body fit
The condition where one of the fingers gets stuck in a bent position is called trigger finger.
It is also known as stenosing tenosynovitis.
Trigger finger can be attributed to the narrowing down of the space within the sheath surrounding the tendon.
In severe cases, the affected finger can get locked in a bent position.
Individuals whose hobbies or job requires repetitive gripping action are more susceptible to developing trigger finger.
Treatment can range from conservative (medications and therapy) alternatives to trigger finger surgery.
Symptoms
Trigger finger often affects the middle and ring finger as well as the thumb. In some cases, more than one finger can be affected at the same time.
Triggering is more noticeable in the mornings or when grasping an object or straightening the affected finger.
Some of the most common indicators of trigger finger includes:
Risk Factors
Some of the factors that can put one at risk of developing the condition include:
Diagnosis
Diagnosing trigger finger does not involve elaborate testing.
The diagnosis is often based on the individual’s medical history and physical examination.
During the physical examination, the patient will be asked to open and close the hand to check for areas of pain.
Evidence of locking will also be looked into.
The doctor will also feel the palm to check if a lump is present. Lumps that are associated with trigger finger will move as the finger moves as it is attached to the tendon responsible for moving the finger.
Treatment
Treatment options for trigger finger will vary and will depend on the condition’s duration and severity.
Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like naproxen (Aleve) and ibuprofen (Motrin IB and Advil) can help ease the pain.
However, it cannot relieve the swelling that constricts the tendon sheath.
Therapy
Conservative (non-invasive) treatments for trigger finger include:
Surgery and other procedures
If the condition does not respond to conservative treatments, the following alternatives might be suggested: