Trigger Finger

Trigger Fingers involve the pulleys and tendons in the hand that move the fingers. Trigger finger/thumb occurs when the tendon or its lining develops a swelling. This makes it difficult for the tendon to pass under the pulley, which surrounds it at the base of the finger causing a catching or triggering feeling in the finger or thumb. Repetitive use, an injury to the palm, or medical conditions such as diabetes may cause trigger fingers/thumb. Trigger finger/thumb often starts with discomfort at the base of the finger and progresses to catching or locking which seems to be in the middle knuckle of the finger or end knuckle of the thumb.

Treatment: Wearing a splint, taking oral anti-inflammatory medicines, or injecting anti-inflammatory medicines around the tendon may be used to reduce the swelling around the enlarged tendon. Treatment may also consist of changing activities to reduce impact on the hand. If these methods fail, surgery may be recommended to release compression on the swollen tendon. This is usually done on an outpatient basis without a general anesthetic.