Trigger Finger: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Symptoms of Trigger Finger

The symptoms of trigger finger can develop gradually or suddenly and vary in severity. Some people may feel only mild discomfort, while others experience severe pain and movement restrictions. Here are the most common symptoms that can be observed with trigger finger:

• Sensation of finger catching: This is one of the most noticeable symptoms of trigger finger. The finger may get stuck in a bent position and be difficult to straighten. This catching sensation is often most pronounced in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity.
• Pain: Pain is typically concentrated at the base of the affected finger or thumb, where the tendon slides through its sheath. Pain can also occur along the entire finger and may worsen with movements involving bending or extending the finger.
• Feeling of grinding or clicking: When moving the affected finger, you may feel a grinding or clicking sensation as the tendon moves through the inflamed sheath. This sensation can be quite bothersome and indicates that the tendon is no longer able to glide smoothly through its sheath due to inflammation and narrowing.
• Swelling and nodules: Swelling or a hard nodule may appear at the base of the finger, which is tender to touch. This nodule is typically caused by thickening of the tendon due to chronic inflammation. Swelling can cause additional discomfort and limit finger movement.
• Weakness of the finger: The finger may feel fatigued or weak, making everyday tasks such as gripping objects, writing, or typing difficult. Fatigue is a result of ongoing inflammation and restricted movement, leading to muscle weakness and reduced functionality of the finger.
• Morning stiffness: The finger is often stiffest and most painful after waking up, although symptoms usually improve somewhat throughout the day.

Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment of trigger finger. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor to prevent the condition from worsening and causing permanent damage to the finger.

Causes of Trigger Finger

Trigger finger is caused by inflammation of the tendon and its sheath, leading to a narrowing of the passage through which the tendon slides. This inflammatory process results in swelling and thickening of the sheath, preventing smooth movement of the tendon. Below are the most common causes of trigger finger explained in more detail:

• Overuse: Frequent repetitive finger movements can cause tendon inflammation. Activities such as typing, playing musical instruments, handling tools, sewing, or knitting can lead to overuse and micro-injuries to the tendon. This results in inflammation and subsequent narrowing of the sheath through which the tendon slides.
• Injuries: Injuries to the hand or fingers, such as impacts, sprains, or cuts, can trigger tendon inflammation. Injured tissues respond with inflammation, which can lead to swelling of the tendon and its sheath. In some cases, a traumatic event can cause the formation of scar tissue, further narrowing the tendon passage.
• Age and gender: Older people and women are at a higher risk of developing trigger finger. Aging brings wear and tear to tissues, including tendons, increasing the risk of inflammation and injury. Hormonal changes in women, particularly during menopause, can affect the elasticity and strength of tissues, contributing to a higher risk of trigger finger.
• Heredity and genetic factors: Some individuals are at greater risk of developing trigger finger due to genetic factors. A family history of tendon or connective tissue problems can increase the likelihood of this condition.
• Occupational activities: Certain professions involve activities that strain the fingers and hands, increasing the risk of trigger finger. Occupations such as construction workers, hairdressers, musicians, and factory workers often involve repetitive hand and finger movements, which can lead to tendon overuse and inflammation.

Understanding these causes is crucial for preventing and managing trigger finger. By identifying risk factors in your life, you can take steps to reduce the risk and protect your hands from injury and inflammation.

Diagnosis of Trigger Finger

The diagnosis of trigger finger is essential for proper treatment and prevention of worsening of the condition. It is typically based on a thorough clinical examination and the patient’s medical history, with the doctor using various methods to assess symptoms and rule out other possible causes of the condition.

• Clinical examination: The doctor begins with a visual inspection of the affected finger or fingers. During the examination, they will look for visible signs such as swelling, nodules at the base of the finger, and possible locking of the finger in a bent position. The clinical examination also includes palpation of the area around the tendon to detect pain, tenderness, or nodules.
• Patient history: An important part of the diagnosis is the medical history, where the doctor gathers detailed information about the symptoms, their duration, and intensity. The doctor may ask about previous injuries, repetitive movements, and activities that could contribute to the condition. Additionally, they will check for the presence of any related medical conditions.
• Range of motion assessment: The doctor will evaluate the range of motion of the affected finger by asking the patient to bend and straighten the finger. During this, they will observe for any catching or pain. Testing also includes assessing whether the patient can straighten the finger independently or needs the assistance of the other hand.
• Imaging studies: In rare cases, when symptoms are unclear or there is suspicion of other issues, the doctor may order imaging studies. Ultrasound can reveal the structure of the tendon and its sheath and detect inflammation, swelling, or damage. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides a more detailed view of soft tissues, including tendons, sheaths, and surrounding structures. MRI can help rule out other possible causes of symptoms, such as tumors, cysts, or other pathologies.
• Differential diagnosis: A critical part of the diagnosis is ruling out other potential conditions that could cause similar symptoms. The doctor will consider conditions such as Dupuytren’s contracture, de Quervain’s tenosynovitis, and other hand disorders. Differential diagnosis involves comparing symptoms, clinical findings, and any imaging results.
• Tests and laboratory studies: In some cases, the doctor may order laboratory tests, such as blood tests, to check for the presence of inflammatory markers or other indicators of health conditions that might contribute to the symptoms of trigger finger.

An accurate diagnosis of trigger finger is crucial for selecting the most appropriate treatment. With a proper diagnosis, a doctor can prescribe suitable therapy and recommend preventive measures that help reduce the risk of recurrence and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Treatment of Trigger Finger

The treatment of trigger finger depends on the severity of the condition and its impact on daily activities. There are various treatment methods, ranging from conservative approaches to surgical interventions. Selecting the right treatment is vital for effectively managing symptoms and preventing recurrence.

• Rest and avoidance of triggering factors: Limiting activities that cause symptoms is the first step in treating trigger finger. It is important to identify and reduce repetitive movements that strain the affected tendons.
• Immobilization: Wearing a splint or tape to immobilize the affected finger can help reduce movement and allow the tendon to recover. Splints are often worn at night or during activities that strain the finger.
• Anti-inflammatory medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation. These medications are available over the counter and can be used to alleviate symptoms. However, it is essential to follow the doctor’s recommendations regarding dosage and duration of use.
• Physical therapy: Includes stretching and strengthening exercises for the fingers that help improve mobility and reduce symptoms. A therapist may demonstrate specific exercises to stretch the affected tendon and its sheath, as well as exercises to strengthen the hand and finger muscles. Physical therapy may also include ultrasound therapy or other therapeutic modalities to reduce inflammation and pain.
• Steroid injections: Injections of corticosteroids directly into the affected area can reduce inflammation and allow the tendon to move normally. Steroid injections are highly effective in relieving symptoms and often provide quick relief.
• Surgical intervention: If conservative treatments are ineffective, a doctor may recommend surgery to release the tendon. The procedure is usually minimally invasive. During the surgery, the surgeon cuts the narrowed part of the sheath to allow the tendon to glide smoothly. The procedure is often successful and provides long-term relief from symptoms.

The treatment of trigger finger is often successful if started early and tailored to the individual’s needs. With proper care, physical therapy, and, if necessary, surgical intervention, symptoms can be relieved, and normal finger function restored. Consult a doctor to determine the best treatment plan for your condition and prevent potential complications.

Prevention of Trigger Finger

Preventing trigger finger requires careful measures, as it cannot always be completely avoided. However, certain steps can reduce the risk of developing this condition. Preventive measures are particularly important for those performing activities that strain the hands and fingers. Here are some useful tips:

• Proper ergonomics: Using ergonomic equipment at work is essential to minimize strain on fingers and hands. Adjust the height and position of work surfaces so that hands and wrists remain in a natural and relaxed position. Use soft and padded grips to reduce pressure on finger tendons during work.
• Stretching and warming up: Before starting activities that strain the hands, warm up and perform stretching exercises for the fingers. Stretching helps increase tendon flexibility and reduces the risk of inflammation.
• Frequent breaks: Take regular breaks during repetitive activities to prevent tendon overuse. This means: Take short breaks every 30 to 60 minutes to rest your hands and fingers. Alternate activities to reduce repetitive movements and allow different muscles and tendons to relax.
• Proper technique: Pay attention to proper technique when performing activities that strain the hands. For example: Use your entire hand and fingers when typing, not just the fingertips. Use the correct technique when playing musical instruments to reduce tension and strain on the fingers.
• Protective equipment: If you work in an environment where your hands are at high risk of injury, wear appropriate protective equipment, such as gloves, to reduce strain and prevent tendon injuries.
• Avoiding overuse: If possible, avoid excessive use of hands and fingers. If you feel pain or discomfort, stop the activity and allow your hands to rest.

Preventing trigger finger requires awareness and care for the health of your hands and fingers. By adopting these measures, you can reduce the risk of developing this painful condition and maintain the functionality of your hands over time. If symptoms of trigger finger do appear, it is important to consult a doctor as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment.