Trigger Finger

Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a disorder characterized by catching or locking of the involved finger in full or near full flexion, typically with force. There may be tenderness in the palm of the hand near the last skin crease.

🔴 Usually, the tendon sheath becomes irritated due to overwork or injury, so people who do repetitive movements, heavy squeezing or lifting in their work can be prone to the condition. It can happen at any time and is more common than people realize.

🟡 A hand doctor will perform a physical exam of your hand if Trigger Finger is suspected. The specialist will have you open and close your hand while watching for catching, locking or motion that causes pain. The tendon of the affected finger may have an area that swells that can be felt in the palm.

🟢 Trigger finger has 4 grades including Grade 1 = pain or history of catching. Grade 2 = visually catches but can actively extend or straighten. Grade 3 = visibly locks requiring passive extension (i.e. straightened with pressure from the opposite hand). Grade 4 = fixed flexion contracture (i.e. the complete inability to move from a bent or flexed position.

🟣 Therapy:
1. Rest Avoid activities that require repetitive gripping, repeated grasping or the prolonged use of vibrating hand-held machinery until your symptoms improve …
2. A splint. Wearing a splint can help rest the tendon.
3. Stretching exercises. Gentle exercises can help maintain mobility in your finger.