Trigger Finger
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Trigger finger is a common hand condition that affects the tendons of the fingers or thumb, making it difficult to straighten them smoothly or causing them to lock or catch when bent. Also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, trigger finger can cause pain, stiffness, and a popping or snapping sensation.
What Causes Trigger Finger?
The tendons in your fingers run in a tunnel at from the palm to the tip of the finger or thumb. When the tendon swells, it can “catch” at the entrance of this tunnel in the palm, this can cause pain and a sensation of snapping.
Trigger finger is most often idiopathic (unknown cause), but is commonly seen in people who have carpal tunnel syndrome. It is also often seen in people with diabetes.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Clicking/popping sensation
- Difficulty straightening the finger
- Locking in a bent position.
- Nodules at the base of the affected finger
- Pain and tenderness
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Weakness
How Is Trigger Finger Diagnosed?
To properly diagnose trigger finger, your doctor will use:
- A physical exam, checking for locking, tenderness, or a lump (nodule)
- A review of your symptoms and medical history
In most cases, no imaging is needed for diagnosis.
How Is Trigger Finger Treated?
Nonsurgical Treatments
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Activity modification
- Rest
- Splinting
- Steroid injections
Surgical Treatments
If nonsurgical treatments don’t help with symptoms or the finger remains locked, surgery may be recommended.
- Trigger finger release surgery: Your surgeon makes a small incision in the pulley to allow the tendon to move freely. This is an outpatient procedure, meaning you go home the same day.
What Are the Risks?
Like any surgery, surgical treatment for trigger finger comes with risks, including:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Nerve injury (rare)
- Recurrence of symptoms
What Is Recovery Like?
Most people can move their fingers shortly after their procedure and resume light activity within a few days; full recovery may take a few weeks. Hand therapy can help regain motion if the finger is stiff. Soreness can linger for months following surgery.
What Is the Outlook for Trigger Finger Surgery?
Trigger finger surgery is highly successful for eliminating the “triggering” or snapping of the finger, although if the finger is stiff prior to surgery, it may not recover a full range of motion after surgery. You should expect to return to regular activities once you have fully recovered.