Education

What Are Some Symptoms Of Trigger Fingers? And How It Can Be Treated

Trigger Fingers

Trigger Fingers

Trigger finger is a common condition that can cause pain, discomfort, and even disability if not treated. It occurs when the tendons in the fingers become inflamed, causing them to “catch” when you bend them. In this blog post, we will discuss what trigger finger is, its symptoms, trigger finger treatment, and ways to prevent it from happening in the first place. Read on to learn more.

What Is a Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger is a condition that affects the tendons in the fingers. It occurs when these tendons become inflamed, causing them to catch or “lock up” when you try to bend your finger. The condition is also known as stenosing tenosynovitis or flexor tenosynovitis.

What Are Some Of The Symptoms?

The most common symptom of a trigger finger is a noticeable “catching” or “locking up” feeling when you try to move your finger. Other symptoms include swelling at the base of your affected finger(s), tenderness or pain at the bottom of your affected finger(s), and stiffness in your fingers or thumb that worsens over time.

How Can You Treat a Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms and how long you have had them. Treatment options include rest, splinting, anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, and steroid injections into the affected area to reduce inflammation and swelling. In cases where these treatments are unsuccessful, surgery may be necessary to release the tendon from its sheath so it can move freely again.

Risks Associated With Trigger Finger Treatment?

The risks associated with trigger finger treatment depend on which treatment option you choose; however, all treatments carry some risk of infection and nerve injury. For example, steroid injections are generally considered safe but may cause side effects such as skin thinning or lightening around the injection site.

Surgery carries additional risks, including scarring and decreased flexibility in the affected area due to scar tissue formation after surgery. As always, it’s essential to talk with your doctor before undergoing any trigger finger treatment so they can assess your situation and determine which treatment option is best for you.

How Can You Prevent Trigger Fingers From Occurring?

To help prevent trigger finger from occurring in the first place, there are several steps you can take:

  • Avoid activities that require repetitive motion with your hands—such as typing—for extended periods without taking breaks
  • Stretch your hands regularly throughout the day
  • Wear gloves when engaging in activities that require manual dexterity
  • Make sure any tools or instruments you use are ergonomically designed for comfortable use
  • Maintain good posture while using keyboards or other digital devices.

Trigger Finger Treatment And Ways To Prevent It: In Closing

Trigger finger is a common condition affecting over 200,000 people in the U.S. annually. It causes pain and discomfort due to inflammation of tendons in the fingers; however, several treatment options are available, ranging from rest and splinting to steroid injections and surgery if necessary. Understanding what causes this condition—such as repetitive motions like typing—can help prevent it from occurring in those susceptible individuals.

If left untreated, the trigger finger can lead to disability. Therefore, seeking medical attention should be done promptly if any symptoms arise. By familiarizing yourself with what triggers this disorder and taking preventive measures, you can help keep your fingers healthy and active for years to come. Thanks for reading.