What is Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger (also called trigger digit) is a condition that causes a finger or thumb to catch, or get stuck, during motion. It is caused by a tendon getting stuck on a pulley at the base of a finger. When we bend our fingers, muscles in our forearms pull on tendons that are attached to the bones in our fingers. As our fingers bend, these tendons slide through a series of pulleys that hold the tendon in place. Sometimes the pulley at the base of the finger can become thick, making it difficult for the tendon to easily glide through as the finger moves. In mild cases, an involved finger may just be a little stiff in the mornings, and in severe cases, a finger can become completely locked in a position.
Who Gets Trigger Finger?
Anyone can get a trigger finger, but certain factors can cause one to be more susceptible to it. Frequently engaging in tasks that require heavy hand use and tight grip, and place pressure on the palm can increase irritation and can exacerbate symptoms. Conditions that can cause swelling and inflammation in the hand are also correlated with trigger finger, such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.
What Are Symptoms of Trigger Finger?
The most common symptom of trigger finger is a feeling of a catch when bending and straightening a finger. In mild cases this may be infrequent and barely noticeable, but it can become severe enough that it impacts one’s ability to perform daily tasks. It can be exacerbated by tight gripping, which can make it difficult to use everyday objects, such as a fork and knife. Sometimes the trigger is painful, which can make it even more difficult to use one’s hand functionally. In the worst cases a finger can become so painful and stuck that it is almost impossible to fully bend or straighten the finger.
What are Conservative Treatments for Trigger Finger?
Cortisone injections can often help to relieve trigger finger symptoms, and for some people, this is all that is needed.
In many cases, Occupational and Hand Therapy can also help to relieve the symptoms. The goals of therapy are to prevent the affected fingers from locking and to find ways to avoid placing undo stress on the tendon and pulley. Therapists can help people find ways to adapt daily tasks to avoid tight gripping and squeezing. They can also make orthoses that can increase mobility and prevent the affected finger from catching. With rest and avoidance of locking, the symptoms can sometimes resolve.
What Other Treatments Exist?
Unfortunately, in some cases therapy, rest, and injections do not help to relieve the symptoms of trigger finger. In these scenarios surgery may be the best option. In this procedure, the pulley at the base of the finger or thumb is released so that the tendon can now glide freely. Most people will not require any Occupational Therapy after the procedure, but in cases where the affected finger was stiff beforehand, some therapy may be needed to help get full mobility and function back.
If you or someone you know is suffering from a hand injury, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced orthopaedic surgeons or hand therapists at CAO. We are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal outcomes and return to their active lifestyles as quickly and safely as possible. Schedule an appointment with a hand and upper extremity specialist today!