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Pittsburgh Spine and Injury Center » Blog » Chiropractic Care » Trigger finger

Trigger finger

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Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition that affects the fingers and thumbs. It occurs when the tendon sheath, which surrounds the tendon that controls the movement of the finger, becomes inflamed, causing the finger to lock o

If you are suffering from trigger finger, you’re not alone. This condition affects around 2% of the general population, and it is more common in women and people over the age of 40. 

Trigger finger occurs when the tendons in the fingers become inflamed, usually due to repetitive motions or forceful gripping. Some common causes of trigger finger include:

  • Overuse: Repetitive motions that involve gripping or grasping can cause the tendons to become inflamed.
  • Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout can increase the risk of developing trigger finger.
  • Trauma: Injuries to the hand or fingers can damage the tendons and increase the risk of developing trigger finger.

The symptoms of trigger finger can vary from mild to severe, and they usually develop gradually over time. Some common symptoms of trigger finger include:

  • Pain or tenderness at the base of the affected finger.
  • A popping or clicking sensation when moving the affected finger.
  • Stiffness in the affected finger, especially in the morning.
  • Difficulty straightening the affected finger.
  • A bump or nodule at the base of the affected finger.

There are several treatment options available for trigger finger, depending on the severity of the condition. Some common treatments include:

  • Rest: Resting the affected finger and applying ice can help reduce pain.
  • Splinting: Wearing a splint or brace can help immobilize the affected finger and reduce strain on the tendons.
  • Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation. *(Use only as directed by healthcare provider)
  • Corticosteroid Injections: Injecting a corticosteroid medication directly into the affected tendon can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. However, this is typically a temporary fix!
  • Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (EWST) is a non-invasive treatment that showed significant improvements with regard to reduction of the pain severity, the severity of triggering, and the functional impact of triggering before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, and in 6 and 18 weeks after intervention
  • Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to release the affected tendon and restore normal finger movement.

Prevention of Trigger Finger 

While trigger finger is not always preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing the condition. Some tips for preventing trigger finger include:

  • Take frequent breaks: If you perform repetitive motions involving gripping or grasping, take frequent breaks to rest your hands and fingers.
  • Use proper technique: When lifting or gripping objects, use proper technique to reduce strain on the tendons in your fingers.
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce your risk of developing medical conditions that increase the risk of trigger finger.

If you are experiencing symptoms of trigger finger we can help!  Call or book your appointment online today! 

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