1. What is trigger finger?
Trigger finger is a condition where one of your fingers or thumb gets stuck in a bent position and then straightens with a snap, like a trigger being pulled.
2. What causes trigger finger?
It is often caused by inflammation, leading to swelling in the sheath around the tendon which bends the finger, making it difficult for the tendon to glide smoothly.
3. What are the symptoms of trigger finger?
Finger stiffness, popping or clicking sensation, and the finger getting stuck in a bent or straight position. These symptoms worsen over time.
4. What are the risk factors for trigger finger?
Females beyond fourth decade with hypothyroidism, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis are at risk. It is also seen in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome.
5. What is the treatment for trigger finger?
A simple day-care surgery performed under local anesthesia called a trigger finger release surgery is the Gold standard treatment. It involves making a small incision to cut the sheath around the affected tendon, allowing it to move more freely.
6. Is there any nonsurgical treatment?
Splints, stretching exercises, NSAIDs and steroid injections can be tried in initial stages but usually symptoms progress to need surgery.
7. Is trigger finger surgery effective?
Yes, for most people, surgery effectively resolves the locking and snapping, restoring normal finger movement.
8. How long is the recovery after trigger finger surgery?
Recovery is generally quick, with most individuals able to use their hand for daily activities within a week after surgery.
9. Are there risks associated with trigger finger surgery?
While complications are rare, potential risks include infection, stiffness, or damage to nearby structures.