What is Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger is a “snapping” condition of any of the digits of the hand when opened or closed. Trigger finger is medically termed stenosing tenosynovitis.

What are symptoms of Trigger Finger?
Symptoms of trigger finger develop when either the ring, middle, or index finger attempts to flex closed while gripping. Instead of a smooth, continual closure, the digit stutters, then snaps closed. The closure is frequently associated with pain and increased swelling at the base of the digit on the palm of the hand. Trigger finger can also affect the thumb.

What causes Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger is caused by local swelling from inflammation or scarring around the tendons that normally pull the affected digit inward toward the palm (flexion). Usually trigger finger occurs as an isolated condition. Sometimes trigger finger is an associated condition resulting from an underlying illness that causes inflammation of tissues of the hand, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

What are the treatments for Trigger Finger?
Depending on how mild or severe your condition is, conservative treatments may be used. The treatment goal is restoration of normal, painless use of the involved hand and resolution of the chronic inflammatory process. Sometimes symptoms can be relieved by simply changing activities and stretching exercise. Anti-inflammatory medication may be prescribed to relieve the pain and symptoms. The most rapidly effective treatment is a local cortisone injection around the affected tendon. Most patients will respond to the cortisone injection. The rehabilitation team at The Centre for Working Hands may also incorporate treatments that include splinting, edema management and PROM exercise programs.

When symptoms do not improve through rehabilitation, hand surgery may be needed. During this surgical procedure, your hand surgeon will release the fibrous sheath to allow more space for the gliding tendon and reduce the inflammatory response. There may be some continued pain and joint stiffness after the surgery.

Please contact our reconstructive surgeons to schedule a consultation to discuss trigger finger. The Centre for Working Hands offers the latest treatments for stenosing tenosynovitis to patients in Elkhart and South Bend, Indiana, Michiana and the Southern Michigan area.

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