Dealing with a finger that catches, locks, or feels stiff can turn everyday tasks into a challenge. Trigger finger is a common condition caused by inflammation in the tendons, making movement painful and frustrating. While it might start as a minor inconvenience, knowing when to seek trigger finger treatment is key to avoiding more serious complications.
In this blog, we’ll explore the signs that it’s time to consult a professional and the treatment options available to help restore smooth, pain-free movement.
Understanding Trigger Finger
Trigger finger develops when the tendons in your finger become inflamed or irritated. The condition gets its name because your finger may snap or trigger when you bend it.
A trigger finger occurs when the tendon has difficulty moving smoothly through its surrounding sheath. It most often affects the thumb, middle finger, and ring finger, but it can happen on any finger.
Early Warning Signs That Require Trigger Finger Treatment
Recognizing the early signs of trigger finger can prevent the condition from worsening and may allow for more effective trigger finger treatment.
Here are some early warning signs of trigger finger:
Morning Finger Stiffness
Morning stiffness in your fingers often signals the beginning stages of trigger finger. Your finger might feel stiff and hard to move in the morning, but this usually gets better as you use it more during the day.
When finger stiffness persists for more than a few days, consider seeking trigger finger treatment.
Clicking or Popping Sensations
A clicking or popping sensation when moving your finger is another early warning sign. This happens when the swollen tendon gets stuck on the pulley system in your finger, often causing slight discomfort or pain.
If these clicking sounds become more frequent or painful, a medical evaluation is recommended. Treatment of trigger finger in its early stages is often more successful than if you wait for symptoms to worsen.
Finger Locking in Bent Position
If your finger gets stuck in a bent position and you need to force it to straighten, it’s important to see a doctor right away. This indicates that the condition has progressed beyond the early stages. The tendon is now significantly swollen and cannot move freely through its sheath.
This symptom requires prompt trigger finger treatment to prevent permanent damage. Delaying treatment at this stage can lead to more complex interventions.
When Conservative Treatment Approaches Fail
If trigger finger symptoms persist despite conservative treatments, advanced medical options may be necessary. Initial steps include resting the finger and modifying activities, while over-the-counter pain relievers can help with mild discomfort temporarily.
Available Treatment Options
Medical treatment options for trigger fingers range from non-invasive approaches, such as splinting and anti-inflammatory medications, to more advanced treatments, like corticosteroid injections or surgical intervention, depending on the severity of the condition.
Splinting
Splinting involves immobilizing the affected finger to rest the tendon and reduce irritation. It is usually worn at night and often combined with other therapies to support recovery.
Corticosteroid Injections
Trigger finger is often treated first with corticosteroid injections. Corticosteroid injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly to the affected tendon sheath, reducing pain and swelling. The procedure provides relief for many patients, with effects lasting several months.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is an effective option for trigger finger treatment. Therapists teach exercises to improve finger flexibility and strength while using techniques like ultrasound or massage to reduce inflammation.
Often combined with splinting or injections, physical therapy can significantly improve function when performed consistently.
Surgical Intervention
For severe cases, surgery for trigger finger may be necessary. The most common procedure, trigger finger release, involves cutting the constricted tendon sheath to restore normal movement. It is typically an outpatient procedure with a high success rate and recovery within a few weeks.
Talk to your orthopedic provider to determine which trigger finger treatment is right for your condition.
Trigger Finger Treatment in North Dakota
Your hand health is important and shouldn’t be ignored. If you are struggling with hand pain or a condition like trigger finger, it is important to seek help from experienced specialists who can guide you toward recovery.
At Bone & Joint Center, our board-certified orthopedic physicians provide expert care and personalized treatment plans, including trigger finger treatment, to help you regain full use of your hands. We understand how much your hands mean to your everyday life, and we are here to provide the care you need.
Call us today at (701) 946-7400 or schedule an appointment with our skilled hand specialists by using our appointment form. We look forward to serving you!
