Trigger finger, also known as steno sing novitiates, is a condition in which a finger assumes a stance of pulling a trigger—the finger locks in place due to the inflammation of a tendon around that area. Consequently, movement around the finger impedes, and aching intensifies.

A certified hand therapist can help you treat this condition effectively.

Causes

Tendons are connective tissues in our body that connect muscles and bones while aiding bones in movement. The tendon around our fingers performs a similar task. However, at times, these tendons or their surrounding tissue, called a synovial sheath, swell due to inflammation.

The inflammation often results due to repetitive and forceful movement of fingers. As a result, the finger doesn’t bend as the inflamed tendon snaps in place.

Trigger finger is a prevalent condition due to medical and occupational reasons.

Medical Reasons

Patients with diabetes, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis mainly suffer from this condition. Moreover, people who have recently undergone surgery for Carpal tunnel syndrome are prone to this condition for the first six months.

Occupation Reasons

Jobs that require intense repetition of fingers and thumb can cause trigger fingers. Musicians, farmers, and industrial workers are mainly at risk of developing trigger fingers.

Treatments

There are various treatments for trigger fingers that a certified hand therapist can guide you through. Some of these are listed below:

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs are the most effective treatment methods to reduce the pain associated with the condition. These over-the-counter drugs alleviate inflammation around the tendon, including ibuprofen and naproxen.
  • A custom-designed splint can also treat the condition by keeping the affected finger stretched and the tendon rested for a while.
  • Hand stretching exercises can bring flexibility back to the fingers and gradually reduce the stiffness of tendons.
  • Resting is the most non-invasive method and requires only gentle padding around the hands to keep the fingers from moving.

If the symptoms are severe, your surgeon might recommend one of the below-listed surgical procedures:

  • Steroid injections into the sheath around the tendon can restore movement. However, you might need more than one shot of steroids.
  • Percutaneous release is a procedure where the doctor employs a needle to break the constriction and release the tendon to move smoothly.
  • Tenolysis is a surgical process conducted in an operation theater where a small cut around the finger allows the surgeon to cut the part of the constricted tendon sheath.

Prevention

Although preventing the trigger finger is tough, you can avoid certain activities requiring repetitive finger and thumb movement. Moreover, avoid holding a vibratory device for a prolonged time or use padded gloves to protect the fingers.

Certified Hand Therapist in Edison, NJ

If you’re suffering from a trigger finger and reside in Edison, NJ, or nearby, Able Hands Rehabilitation can help you. The team of experienced and certified hand therapists has treated numerous hand-related conditions over the years. For a consultation, contact them via call or email or visit their website today.