Trigger finger is a common condition that results in pain and snapping of the tendons at the base of the finger or thumb.

What causes trigger finger to occur?
The cause of trigger finger is not clear. It is thought to be genetic and often occurs in one or more fingers and at different times. Trigger finger results from a difference between the size of the tendon and the entrance to the tendon sheath, usually at the base of a particular finger. When the size difference between the tendon and the sheath is at a critical point, the tendon experiences resistance from the tendon sheath. Trigger finger may be caused by highly repetitive or forceful use of the thumb or finger. Carpal Tunnel Treatment Seattle can result in conditions like gout, rheumatoid arthritis, or diabetes. Trigger fingers occur more frequently in women than men, predominantly in 40 to 60 years old patients.

What are the symptoms of trigger finger?
One of the first symptoms may be soreness at the base of the thumb or finger. A patient often complains of a painful click when they attempt to flex or extend the affected finger. Periods of inactivity can worsen the catching sensation and activity will loosen up the trigger finger. With severe cases, the finger becomes locked in a flexed or extended position and must be manually straightened.

What is the treatment of trigger finger?

Often, the most effective treatment for trigger finger is an injection of steroids directly into the flexor tendon sheath. Cortisone, a steroid, decreased the swelling within the tendon and usually decreases symptoms. Over 90% of patients find some relief from a steroid injection, though in half of patients the symptoms recur.




Is surgery required to treat trigger finger?
If the condition does not resolve, a procedure to permanently release the tendon is often required. This simple outpatient procedure, called ‘trigger finger release’, is a same-day surgery that can be done under local anesthesia or a regional nerve block. After anesthesia is given, a small incision is made in the skin of around one centimeter in size, allowing for permanent release of the tightened structures at the base of the tendon. Recovery is quite quick, with restrictions including dressing removal at three days and full function soon after. Most people enjoy full recovery after this procedure.




What are the possible complications of a trigger finger release?

Seattle Shoulder Impingement Surgery release surgery is very safe and usually quite effective. There are, however, some possible complications, usually residual stiffness from the chronic nature of the condition and rarely infection, which is minimized by antibiotics. Most patients have a high success rate with the procedure with minimal side effects. Most patients return to work within 10-14 days, depending on the severity of the job.

If you have any questions or you think you have a trigger finger, do not hesitate to set up an appointment. Call 20-295-689 for an appointment.