Trigger finger: Causes and symptoms

Welcome, dear readers, to another informative article on our blog. Today we delve into a condition that can make even the simplest tasks a challenge: trigger finger disease. Although it may seem like a term taken from the world of espionage, trigger finger is actually a common hand condition that can affect people of all ages, especially older adults.

So, let us together unravel the mystery of trigger finger and better understand this condition.

Understanding trigger finger:

Imagine this situation: You wake up in the morning, ready to conquer the day. When he tries to make a fist or open it completely, he feels a sudden “pull” or “snap” in one of the fingers, accompanied by pain or discomfort. It almost looks like his finger is stuck, like someone has placed a trigger on it. This is precisely where the name “trigger finger” comes from.

In medical terms, trigger finger is known as stenosing tenosynovitis. It occurs when the tendons that control the movement of the fingers become inflamed or irritated, causing them to thicken. The affected tendon passes through a tunnel-like structure called a sheath, which helps maintain smooth movement.

However, when the tendon swells, it can no longer slide effortlessly through the sheath, causing the characteristic snagging or locking sensation.

Causes of trigger finger and risk factors:

The exact cause of trigger finger disease is often unclear, but there are several factors that can increase the risk of developing it. These include:

Diseases: Certain diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes and hypothyroidism, have been associated with an increased risk of trigger finger. The underlying inflammation in these diseases can affect the tendons.
Sex and age: Trigger finger is more common in women and tends to occur more frequently as we age, especially after age 40.

Trigger finger treatment

The good news is that trigger finger can often be managed with conservative treatment options, but most of the time surgery to release the tendon is necessary. Here are some approaches that may be recommended:

Rest and immobilization: Resting the affected finger from activities that aggravate the condition can help relieve symptoms and promote healing.
Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Hand exercises and pre- and post-surgical rehabilitation: Gentle exercises and stretches prescribed by a hand therapist can help maintain finger mobility and strengthen the surrounding muscles.

Conclusions about trigger finger

By shedding light on trigger finger disease, we hope to equip you with knowledge and understanding. If you experience any of the above signs and symptoms, do not hesitate to contact a specialist. Remember that early intervention can lead to effective treatment and better hand health.

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