Trigger finger

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider will perform physical examination by assessing the patient’s fingers by having them perform the opening and closing of their hands. This procedure will help the provider assess the pain, the smooth the motionless of the finger’s motion, and check for any finger locking.

Treatment

Treatment for trigger finger varies based on its severe and duration.

• Medications: A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, etc.) or naproxen sodium (Aleve) may be prescribed. Some of these medications can be applied topically through creams or patches to the skin where the issue is occurring.
• Non-invasive treatments:
  • Resting: Limiting or avoiding activities that require constant gripping, grasping, or extended use of vibrating handheld equipment until symptoms improve.
  • Splinting: A splint may be used to prevent the fingers from moving.
  • Stretching: Fingers mobility could be maintained with gentle stretching exercises.
• Invasive treatment: Healthcare provider may recommend the following procedures if the symptoms are severe or if the non-invasive procedures are not successful in relieving the symptoms.
  • Steroid injection: Inflammation may be reduced and the tendon’s ability to glide smoothly restored by a steroid injection into or close to the tendon sheath. The effects of an injection frequently last for over a year but some people may require multiple injections.
  • Needle procedure: A healthcare provider will numb the palm before inserting a sturdy needle into the tissue surrounding the injured tendon. The needle is used to break apart the tissue obstructing the tendon’s smooth motion by moving the needle and the finger. Results can be improved by using ultrasound guidance during the surgery.
  • Surgery: During surgery, a small cut is made in the sheath that the tendons pass through. The sheath surrounding the tendons of the affected finger(s) or thumb is enlarged by cutting the sheath, making it easier for the tendon to pass through. This procedure helps regain the injured finger(s) or thumb’s painless and flexible range of motion.