Trigger Finger

Trigger Finger - What it is

Does your finger…

Ache at the base of the finger
Give a catching feeling when moving
Get locked?

You may have a trigger finger. We all have tendons, which are structures important for moving our fingers. What happens is the lining of the tendon swells and the tendon is not able to glide smoothly. This results in pain or a catching feeling when you try to move your finger.

Trigger Finger - Symptoms

Trigger Finger - How to prevent?

Trigger Finger - Causes and Risk Factors

The cause has not been established. It may be associated with:

Excessive grasping activities
Changes in connective tissues in diseases like rheumatoid arthritis/gout/diabetes or post chemotherapy
Hormonal changes in pregnancy/middle age

It is not hereditary but may affect more than one finger.

Trigger Finger - Diagnosis

Trigger Finger - Treatments

We will first try non-surgical methods, such as

Wearing a splint
Anti-inflammatory medications
Steroid injection to the finger
Hand therapy

If symptoms persist, surgery is recommended. It is a minor procedure performed under local anesthesia, which involves the release of the tendon tunnel to create more space. There will only be a small scar.

Will it recur?

Sadly, it may, but at a low recurrence rate, especially with non-surgical methods. With surgery, recurrence rate can be as low as <5%.

Trigger Finger - Preparing for surgery

Trigger Finger - Post-surgery care

Trigger Finger - Other Information

Overview

Hand ＆ Reconstructive Microsurgery,

Hand and Wrist Conditions,

Hand Trauma

Article contributed by Hand ＆ Reconstructive Microsurgery, Singapore General Hospital

The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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