About Trigger Finger

Trigger Finger is a condition wherein a finger or thumb becomes stuck in a flexed position and then snaps as it straightens. Straightening the finger may be painful. Patients may need to use the other hand to straighten the finger.

The cause of this disorder has to do with a mismatch in the size of the tendon and natural tendon pulleys in the finger that hold the tendons near the bones. The size mismatch can occur as a consequence of wear and tear, or (rarely) may be present at birth.  There appears to be a higher incidence of this problem in individuals with diabetes, thyroid disorder or rheumatoid arthritis, although it is common enough to be present in anyone.

Symptoms of trigger finger can include swelling, a tender lump in your palm, catching or popping sensation in your finger or thumb joints, or pain when bending or straightening your finger. Diagnosis is most often made on physical exam, and laboratories or radiographic studies such as MRI or ultrasound are unnecessary.

Rarely this problem may resolve without specific treatment in the first month or so.  If the problem has existed for longer than 3 months, specific treatments are required to cure the problem.  If left untreated, joint contracture and flexor tendon adhesions may result, complicating treatment. The major treatment options include steroid injection and surgical release of the offending pulley. In severe or prolonged cases, tendon adhesion release and/or joint release may be indicated.

If you are concerned regarding this problem, we can perform a detailed examination, ultrasound, x-rays and other tests as needed and discuss the options with you to find the option that best suits your needs. Contact us today.