Tendonitis

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Trigger Finger

Trigger finger is a condition which results from the inflammation of a tendon or the sheath (tenosynovium) surrounding the tendon in a finger or thumb. This inflammation may either cause nodules to form on the tendon, or may be caused by nodules that have formed on the tendon. These nodules prevent the tendon from passing freely back and forth within the sheath, causing friction and irritation.

Symptoms of trigger finger

A digit that is affected by trigger finger is often painful to bend or straighten, and will often snap or pop when flexing, as though it has just pulled or released the trigger of a gun. A “click” may be heard and felt while bending or straightening the finger. Tenderness around the nodule is common. Any digit can be affected by this condition, though the thumb, middle, and ring finger are the most common.

Causes of trigger finger

Like most tendon-related maladies, trigger finger is usually caused by repetitive strain and pressure. Using pistol-gripped power tools and performing other grip-intensive tasks are common culprits. Truck drivers, farmers, and other people who spend many long hours gripping a steering wheel are especially prone to trigger finger. Other people who are at risk of developing this condition include rheumatoid arthritis sufferers and people who have suffered previous tendon injuries in the hand.

Treatment

Refraining from activities that cause this condition is the first step. Most trigger finger sufferers know, or have a pretty good idea what these activities are. Early treatment can be as simple as hot/cold packs, anti-inflammatory medications, and splinting. Resting the tendon is the important thing, so inflammation is allowed to subside and proper healing can begin. Strengthening exercises and physical therapy can also be very effective.

Treating this condition before nodes are allowed to develop is crucial. Once nodes have developed, there is very little that can be done short of surgery. Corticosteroid injections may reduce swelling and pain, but this is not a permanent solution. Surgery typically consists of removing the nodes from the tendon, along with any other scar tissue that may have formed around the nodes.

If you live in the Chattanooga, Tennessee area and think you may suffer from trigger finger or tendonitis, please contact the Hayes Hand Center today.