TRIGGER FINGER

Trigger finger is an often painful condition caused by the narrowing of the tendon sheath in the affected finger. Normally, the tendons glide easily through the sheath as the finger moves. When the sheath becomes irritated or swollen, the tendon can become temporarily stuck within the tight space. This can cause pain or a popping and catching sensation leading to further inflammation. As the problem worsens, the finger can become locked and may be difficult to straighten or bend.

Though causes for trigger finger are not always clear, the condition is more common in women than men and occurs most often in patients between the ages of 40 to 60. Medical conditions such as diabetes, gout and rheumatoid arthritis may be associated with the symptoms of trigger finger. People whose work or hobbies require repetitive gripping actions also seem to be most susceptible to this condition. In rare cases, trigger finger can also be caused by a congenital defect that forms a nodule in the tendon.

Treatment of trigger finger varies depending on the severity of the condition. Rest, splinting or a steroid injection be prescribed. The goal of any treatment is to reduce the swelling of the tendons and tendon sheath, thereby eliminating the problematic catching or locking and allowing painless, full movement of the finger.

Newer, minimally invasive techniques are available to release the narrowing which is the cause of trigger finger. This can frequently be done in the office without the need for a surgical incision or stitiches.

Finally, surgery can eliminate the symptoms associated with this condition. It is generally done as an outpatient and in most cases recovery is rapid.

If non-surgical forms of treatment do not improve symptoms or your condition is more severe, surgery may be recommended. The goal of surgery is to widen the tendon sheath to relieve the catching caused by too narrow a passageway.