Trigger finger, clinically known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition in which the flexor tendons no longer function properly, thereby restricting a person’s ability to straighten his or her finger after bending it. This condition may affect one or more of the fingers as well as the thumb at any given time. Commonly, the affected finger straightens with a sudden snap, similar to that which occurs when a trigger is released. However, in severe cases, the finger may become locked in the bent position. Fortunately, trigger finger can be treated at the Sutherland Shire clinic locations of experienced hand and wrist surgeon Dr. Jai Sungaran.
If you suffer from the symptoms of trigger finger and wish to explore your non-surgical and surgical treatment options, we invite you to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Sungaran by contacting Southern Hand & Wrist, serving the Sutherland Shire, South-Eastern Sydney, and neighbouring communities today.
What is the cause of trigger finger?
The flexor tendons, the tendons that allow your fingers and thumb to bend, are protected by bands of tissue that form sheaths. The tendons glide through these sheaths, aided by a lubricating membrane (the synovium) at the joint located at the mouth of each sheath. Trigger finger can occur when:
- The flexor tendon becomes irritated, growing thicker and possibly resulting in the formation of nodules.
- The sheath thickens, resulting in a narrowing of its mouth.
- The synovium becomes inflamed and swollen.
As a result of any or all of these factors, the affected finger or thumb may become temporarily locked in the bent position as the tendon gets stuck at the mouth of the sheath. When the tendon forces its way through the sheath, the finger or thumb will suddenly jut outward, usually accompanied by a popping or snapping sound.
Although this offers a general explanation for the cause of trigger finger, the exact cause of trigger finger is often unknown. People at greatest risk for trigger finger include:
- Females
- People over the age of 40
- Those with rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes
- People with occupations that require repetitive actions of the hand and prolonged gripping (e.g., factory workers, farmers, musicians, mechanics)
How is trigger finger diagnosed?
In general, Dr. Sungaran is able to diagnose trigger finger simply by performing a physical exam. However, he may perform other diagnostic tests if he suspects more extensive damage to the tendons or damage to the muscles, nerves, joints, or other structures of the hand.
How is trigger finger treated non-surgically?
As with any other condition, Dr. Sungaran will always suggest the most conservative treatment that is likely to produce the best possible result for patients with trigger finger. This means that he will usually explore non-surgical options before recommending surgery. Non-surgical treatment options include:
- Rest: If caught in its earliest stages, trigger finger may subside after a few weeks of rest. This is especially effective among people who work in professions that entail repeated hand motions, prolonged gripping, or extensive use of vibrating hand-operated machinery.
- Splint therapy: By wearing a splint that keeps the affected finger in an extended position while sleeping for between one and two months, many patients are able to overcome trigger finger.
- Physical therapy: Stretching exercises and other forms of physical therapy can be used to restore mobility to the finger. Physical therapy is often used as an adjunct to other non-surgical, as well as surgical, therapies.
- Corticosteroid injections: Corticosteroid injections directly into the tendon sheath can help to relieve inflammation and restore mobility. If corticosteroid injections fail to provide permanent relief, then surgery is usually recommended.
How is trigger finger treated surgically?
Surgery to correct trigger finger is a relatively minor procedure that can help to improve a patient’s quality of life quite substantially. During the procedure, which is generally performed on an outpatient basis, Dr. Sungaran makes a small incision in the palm of the hand, through which he cuts the tendon sheath. When the sheath heals naturally, its mouth is wider than previously, allowing the tendon greater room to glide through it.
In some cases, it may be possible for Dr. Sungaran to relieve the symptoms of trigger finger using only the tip of a needle and the guidance of an ultrasound device to locate the opening of the tendon sheath. In these cases, the procedure can be performed without an incision.
Learn More about the Treatment of Trigger Finger
If you would like to learn more about the treatment of trigger finger at our Sutherland Shire practice, with offices in Caringbah and Sydney Olympic Park, please contact Southern Hand & Wrist today.
