Causes of Trigger Finger

 

The main cause is inflammation and thickening of the tendon used for finger movement, along with narrowing of the tendon sheath.

 

Common Risk Factors

 

Repetitive hand use:

๐ Typing

๐ Using scissors

 

Occupations:

๐ Craftsmen

๐ Carpenters

๐ Hairdressers

๐ Gardeners

 

Sports:

๐ Golf

๐ Tennis

 

Underlying conditions:

๐ Diabetes

๐ Rheumatoid arthritis

๐ Gout

 

Symptoms by Stages

 

Trigger finger symptoms can be classified into 4 stages:

 

Stage 1: Early Stage

 

๐ Pain at the base of the finger (especially in the morning)

๐ Small lump may be felt

๐ Tenderness when pressed

 

Stage 2: Catching Sensation

 

๐ Finger movement becomes uneven or “catching”

๐ Clicking sound when extending the finger

 

Stage 3: Locking Stage

 

๐ Finger locks in a bent position

๐ Requires the other hand to straighten

 

Stage 4: Severe Locking

 

๐ Finger becomes permanently stuck

๐ Cannot be straightened even with assistance

 

Treatment Options

 

Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms.

 

1. Rest

 

๐ Avoid repetitive hand movements

๐ Reduce gripping or forceful finger use

 

2. Warm Compress

 

๐ Apply warm compress at the base of the finger

๐ Helps reduce pain and relax muscles

 

3. Medication

 

Doctors may prescribe:

๐ Pain relievers

๐ NSAIDs

 

4. Steroid Injection

 

๐ Common for mild to moderate cases

๐ Injected at the tendon sheath

๐ Reduces inflammation and improves movement

 

5. Surgery

 

๐ Recommended for severe or persistent cases

๐ Minor procedure to release the tendon sheath

๐ Allows normal tendon movement

 

Summary

 

Trigger finger is a common condition caused by tendon inflammation due to repetitive use.

 

 

 

 

source : Ladprao General Hospital
**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team