Trigger finger syndrome is a condition that affects the movement of your fingers or thumb, causing pain, stiffness, and a sensation of catching or locking when you bend and straighten the affected digit. It can disrupt everyday activities, making simple tasks like gripping or holding objects difficult.
At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, we provide specialized care for conditions like trigger finger syndrome. With convenient locations in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, and Middlefield,, OH, our experienced team is here to help you regain full use of your hands. Visit our hand and wrist specialists today to learn more about how we can help.
The primary symptoms of trigger finger include:
In some cases, the condition may worsen, causing the finger to remain stuck in a bent position permanently if left untreated.
Trigger finger occurs when the flexor tendons in your hand become irritated or inflamed. These tendons run through a series of tunnels or pulleys in your finger, including the a1 pulley. When inflammation restricts movement, the tendon can no longer glide smoothly, causing the finger to “trigger” or catch in a bent position. Certain factors can increase this inflammation, including repetitive gripping motions, prolonged pressure, or injury to the hand.
Trigger finger can affect anyone, but certain groups are more likely to develop the condition. People who frequently use their hands for activities that involve repetitive gripping, such as athletes and manual laborers, are at higher risk.
Women between the ages of 40 and 60 are also more commonly affected.
Additionally, conditions such as diabetes, carpal tunnel syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis can increase the likelihood of developing trigger finger.
To diagnose trigger finger, a specialist will review your medical history and perform a physical examination of your hand. The doctor will look for signs of tenderness, swelling, and any difficulty in bending or straightening the affected finger or thumb. In some cases, diagnostic imaging like an X-ray or ultrasound may be used to rule out other conditions.
There are several treatments available for trigger finger, depending on the severity of the condition:
Certain exercises can help restore mobility and flexibility in the affected finger. These exercises can be beneficial as part of the recovery process or as a preventative measure. Here are a few commonly recommended trigger finger exercises:
Consult with your doctor before beginning any exercise routine to ensure it’s safe and effective for your condition.
While it’s not always possible to prevent trigger finger, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Avoid repetitive gripping motions or prolonged pressure on your hands, particularly if your work or hobbies require repetitive tasks. If you’re prone to hand injuries, be sure to use ergonomic tools and take regular breaks.
If you have underlying conditions like diabetes or carpal tunnel syndrome, managing these health issues effectively can also lower your risk of developing trigger finger.
Recovery time from trigger finger depends on the severity of the condition and the treatment method used. Non-surgical treatments like splinting or steroid injections can provide relief within weeks or months. If surgery is required, recovery typically involves a short period of immobilization followed by physical therapy to restore full function. Most people experience significant improvement after trigger finger release surgery, though some stiffness may persist temporarily.
At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, our experienced surgeons and therapists are committed to helping you recover quickly and regain full mobility in your hand. If you’re dealing with trigger finger symptoms, don’t wait—seek expert care today.
Ready to regain full use of your hand? Precision Orthopaedic Specialties offers expert care for trigger finger and other hand conditions. Visit our hand specialists at any of our locations in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, and Middlefield, Ohio, and take the first step toward recovery!
Medically reviewed by Nicole Sarkisian, D.O.
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