Warning Signs Of Trigger Finger

Trigger finger is a condition that occurs when a patient's fingers catch or lock into a bent position. This condition most often affects the ring finger and the thumb, and symptoms are generally worse in the morning. Female patients are most at risk for trigger finger, and it is particularly common in individuals between thirty-five and fifty years old. Occupations and hobbies that involve repetitive hand motions and prolonged gripping increase an individual's chances of developing trigger finger, and patients with diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis have an elevated risk of this condition as well. Trigger finger could also develop as a complication of carpal tunnel surgery. In this case, it may appear up to six months after the surgery has been completed.

A diagnosis of trigger finger is made after a physical examination of the hand. During the exam, the doctor will ask the patient to open and close their hands, and they will also feel the palm to check for a moveable lump at the base of the finger. Treatment options for trigger finger include rest, padded gloves, splints, and stretches to improve finger mobility. Some patients may be given corticosteroid injections, and patients with severe cases of trigger finger may be advised to undergo a percutaneous release or a surgical procedure to open the constricted portion of the affected tendon sheath.

Stiff Fingers

Patients with this condition often notice stiff fingers, and this could be painful and limit the patient's range of motion. Finger stiffness could make it difficult to grasp or hold objects, and patients might drop objects more frequently than they otherwise would. Stiff fingers may make everyday tasks such as driving, turning a doorknob, buttoning a shirt, or typing painful. Since stiff fingers often occur in the early stages of trigger finger, seeing a doctor at this time could enable patients to be treated more effectively and successfully. To ease the pain of stiff fingers, it may be helpful to use ice packs or heating pads, and patients might also wish to take anti-inflammatory medication.