TRIGGER FINGER

ABOUT TRIGGER FINGER

Trigger Finger is a condition where a finger or thumb gets stuck in a bent position because of a tendon getting caught within its protective sheath. The sheath, or synovium, is a tunnel of lubricating tissue that normally allows the tendon to move smoothly as you bend or straighten your finger (or thumb). If the sheath becomes inflamed or damaged, it can cause the tendon to more less freely or even get stuck. We can treat Trigger Finger in Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster and Worksop.

Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, can affect anyone of any age. However, trigger finger is most common in women aged between 55 and 60 and is caused by repetitive movements of the hands, such as frequent gripping. People with diabetes are also more prone to stenosing tenosynovitis.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF TRIGGER FINGER?

Symptoms of trigger finger focus around the movement of the affected finger:

• Your finger/thumb catches or makes a popping sound when you straighten and bend it and this may cause some pain.

• The finger/thumb may be stiff to move when you first wake up and improves throughout the day.

• Your finger or thumb may lock in a bent position which can be pulled straight when using the other hand.

• Hard lumps or nodules at the base of the finger or thumb and in the palm of your hand.

Without treatment, a trigger finger that does not improve may lead to further damage to the sheath. The sheath may become thicker, scarred or more nodules may form all of which will further impede the use of the finger.

WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR TRIGGER FINGER?

Trigger finger doesn’t always require treatment as it will often clear up on its own. However, if there is no improvement within a couple of weeks, it’s better to seek help from your GP:

• Painkillers – using an anti-inflammatory painkiller, such as ibuprofen, can help reduce the swelling in the tendon’s sheath.

• Splint – wearing a splint at night keeps the finger in the extended position which allows the tendon and sheath to rest.

• Cortisone steroid injection – these injections can reduce inflammation and treat any pain and can work very quickly to improve your trigger finger.

Surgery is also an option where the inflamed or damaged sheath is removed. Book an appointment with one of our specialists to treat Trigger Finger in Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster or Worksop. You can also follow us on social media.