Stenosing tenosynovitis – more commonly known as trigger finger – is a painful condition marked by an inability to move one’s finger or thumb from a bent position. Trigger finger can affect anyone, although it is particularly common in those who use their hands and grip objects repeatedly for a job or hobby. The condition may be isolated to a single finger or thumb, or it may affect multiple digits on one or both hands. This article will explain how to recognize trigger finger symptoms and find effective treatment that will help to resolve them.
How To Identify and Treat Trigger Finger Symptoms
Trigger finger develops due to irritation and inflammation of the tendon sheath. This, in turn, impedes movement of the involved digits. Trigger finger symptoms may range from mild to severe, with symptoms tending to be worse in the morning. Patients with trigger finger may report:
- – Inability to straighten the affected finger or thumb from a bent position
- – Stiffness and discomfort
- – A clicking/popping sensation with movement
- – Tenderness in the palm of the affected hand
- – A bump at the base of the affected finger or thumb
Trigger finger can make it difficult or painful to perform your occupation and other essential daily activities. If symptoms persist, you may benefit from exploring treatment with a skilled orthopedic physician. First-line therapies recommended for trigger finger might include:
- – Taking a break from activities that require prolonged gripping or grasping
- – Wearing a finger splint to take strain off the tendon
- – Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to help manage pain
- – Performing stretching exercises to keep the finger mobile
If your symptoms do not improve with conservative treatment, your orthopedic doctor may suggest considering steroid injections or trigger finger release surgery.
Dr. Soffer Provides Advanced Orthopedic Care in Reading, PA
If you are noticing signs associated with trigger finger, you can trust Dr. Stephen Soffer to help by providing effective, individualized treatment. As part of his rigorous training, Dr. Soffer completed a fellowship in sports medicine with Dr. James Andrews, a world-renowned sports surgeon.
Today, Dr. Soffer holds board certification in orthopedic surgery and proudly offers all of the latest, most advanced surgical & nonsurgical treatment options. To get started on the road to healing, call our office at 610-375-4949 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Soffer today.
