What is Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger is a condition where the motion of the tendon that opens and closes the finger is limited, causing the finger or thumb to lock or catch in a bent position when extended.
The condition, which is more formally known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is named for its similarity to a trigger being pulled and released. In simple terms, trigger finger is caused by swelling from inflammation around the tendons that aid in pulling the affected finger inward toward the palm.
Tendons, which control movement and connect muscle to bone, slide through a tunnel lined with tenosynovium that releases lubricating fluid.
This fluid allows the tendon to move smoothly within its tunnel as a finger is straightened or bent. However, as the tendon moves through the tunnel it can become irritated and thicken, causing passage to become more difficult. If the repetitive movement, strain, overuse or inflammatory conditions continue, the tunnel can become narrow and constricting.
As the tunnel narrows and constricts, the tendon has a difficult time moving smoothly and may catch in a bent position before straightening out. This occurrence is known as trigger finger.
The causes for trigger finger are not always known.
The condition is more prevalent in women and occurs in most cases between the ages of 40 and 60 years of age. In addition, the condition is more prevalent in people with certain medical problems such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes. There are many symptoms to look for if you suspect you may have trigger finger. The most obvious is a catching or popping feeling in the finger or thumb joints. Other symptoms include: presence of a small lump on the affected joint; swelling; and pain in the palm. In some instances, the finger cannot be extended from its bent position.
Diagnosis for trigger finger is usually quite simple and can be diagnosed with physical examination and information obtained from the patient. However, x-rays are sometimes taken to rule out other injuries or diseases.
Treatment for trigger finger can range from conservative to surgical (Figure 2). Sometimes, it’s relieved with a combination of rest, pain medications and splints. However, cortisone injections may beutilized in some cases. If trigger finger is associated with an underlying medical problem, such as diabetes, this method may be less effective.
Physical therapy and finger exercises may be suggested to alleviate the problem. If conservative treatment fails, an orthopaedic surgeon may suggest surgical intervention such as p percutaneous trigger finger release. Here, a needle is used to r release the locked finger by widening the opening of the tunnel s so the tendon can slide through more easily. This is an outpatient p procedure with an expected complete recovery within a few weeks.
The prevalence of trigger finger is a growing concern, as injuries resulting from repeated motion are growing. According to the U.S. Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses, more than 302,000 repetitive/cumulative trauma disorders occur each year in the United States. Trigger finger is classified as a repetitive strain injury.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, ergonomic disorders account for 56 percent of illnesses reported to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
