Stenosing tenosynovitis, better known as trigger finger, is a common hand condition that is usually caused by repetitive gripping, which irritates the tendons in the fingers. Those with professions that require repetitive hand use and prolonged gripping are at a higher risk of developing trigger finger. Additionally, women, people above the age of 40, those with diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis also have an increased risk.
Trigger finger symptoms include one or two fingers being stiff, especially in the morning. You may also experience a popping or clicking sensation when you move the affected finger. It is also common for the affected finger to catch or lock in a bent position, only to straighten after forceful or repeated attempts. In severe cases, you may be unable to straighten the finger at all.
For some, trigger finger resolves on its own. For others, it may require medical or surgical intervention. Here are a few treatments for trigger finger that range from conservative to invasive.
Splinting
Preventing movement of your fingers can relieve the pain and discomfort from trigger finger. Doctors recommend splinting your affected finger overnight to prevent movement, promote healing, and ease symptoms the following day.
Steroid Injections
Corticosteroids help reduce swelling associated with trigger finger. Your doctor will target the tendon sheath so the tendons can move freely without pain in a matter of days or weeks. Both splinting and injections are usually recommended to patients with no underlying conditions that exacerbate trigger finger.
Tenosynovectomy Surgery
If conservative treatments does not produce the desired results, your doctor may recommend surgery. During surgery, the doctor will slice through the affected tendon sheath, freeing up your tendon to move normally again. The surgical procedure takes about 20 minutes to complete and is performed in an outpatient setting.
Open Trigger Finger Release Surgery
During this procedure, your doctor will make an incision on the palm side of your hand and cut through the tendon sheath, allowing the tendon to move freely.
Percutaneous Trigger Finger Release Surgery
Instead of making an incision on your palm, this procedure involves inserting a needle into the affected finger and cutting through the ligament in order to access the tendon. This procedure should only be performed by highly experienced and exceptionally skilled physicians to prevent damage to the inner structures while trying to reach the tendon.
All in all, surgery can be an effective method of treatment for trigger finger when conservative treatments fail to work.
Trigger Finger Treatment in Austin, Texas
All-Star Orthopedics provides comprehensive orthopedic care and treatment to patients with all types of orthopedic conditions, including trigger finger.
We begin by performing a full evaluation of your condition in order to come up with a highly customized treatment plan that will be most effective for you. We like to first exhaust nonsurgical treatment methods, such as therapeutic injections and physical therapy, before we recommend surgery.
Are you ready to receive the best possible treatment for your trigger finger? Call All-Star Orthopedics at (512) 346-4933 or request an appointment now. Our friendly staff looks forwarding to serving you.
