Do you sometimes hear or see your finger snap and pop, or feel pain when you move the finger? These are telltale signs of trigger finger.
You might be tempted to ignore trigger finger pain and expect it to go away on its own, but that may not happen. There are effective treatments that can help to relieve your pain and prevent the condition from getting worse.
Let’s talk about what causes trigger finger, some of the key reasons why you should not ignore trigger finger pain, and where you can go in Macomb County for outstanding orthopedic treatment.
What Is Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger, also called stenosing tenosynovitis, is a common hand condition whereby the tendon in the finger or thumb does not glide smoothly as you move the finger. This happens if the tendon is inflamed, so it becomes a bit swollen, and the tendon has difficulty moving within its protective sheath – becoming stuck in a bent position.
Trigger finger, therefore, makes it difficult to straighten out your finger. This can affect one or more of your fingers, including your thumb.
People who participate in activities that require prolonged gripping or repetitive hand motions are more prone to having trigger finger. Those who have certain underlying health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, or diabetes also have a high risk of developing trigger finger. Women are more likely than men to develop this condition.
Signs and symptoms of trigger finger include soreness, swelling, locking, and stiffness in the hand. The feeling that your finger is hot is a sign of infection, in which case you should see an orthopedic doctor as soon as possible. Pain and numbness of the finger joint also warrant immediate medical attention.
What Happens if I Ignore the Pain?
Trigger finger usually occurs in your dominant hand; ignoring your trigger finger pain will likely result in one or more of the following:
- Increasing worsening of the condition, causing partial disability which might interfere with accomplishing simple daily tasks
- Increasing pain and discomfort in the finger and hand
- The affected finger remaining permanently locked into a bent position
- Affecting the other fingers, which could eventually become fixed into a curled or straightened position
- Swelling and other accompanying symptoms could become severe
- Difficulty typing, manipulating, or gripping
Treatments for Mild Trigger Finger Pain
Mild cases of trigger finger can be relieved with over-the-counter pain relievers. You will also want to stop doing the tasks which are causing the condition.
You must avoid performing activities that require repetitive or strong grasping and gripping. Vibrating handheld equipment should also be used at a minimum. It is best to wear padded or thick gloves if it is necessary to perform these activities.
If you’re not sure what is causing the issue, your orthopedic doctor will be able to decipher the root cause and give you treatment that works for you. The orthopedist may also suggest that you wear a splint at night while sleeping, which helps the tendon to rest. Stretching exercises also work to keep your finger’s mobility, so your doctor may recommend that you see a physical therapist to teach you special hand exercises.
Treatments for Severe Trigger Finger
The noninvasive treatments highlighted above may not work for severe cases. For a severe case of trigger finger pain and disability, your doctor might recommend that you undergo outpatient surgery or another type of invasive treatment.
Steroid injection treatment works well for many people who have severe trigger finger. During this treatment, your doctor will inject a steroid medication near or directly into the tendon sheath. This medication can help reduce inflammation and allow the tendon to glide easily.
Trigger Finger Treatment in Clinton Township, MI
Don’t wait for your trigger finger pain to worsen before you seek professional medical help. Addressing your condition early ensures that your trigger finger isn’t permanent.
If you’re looking for an orthopedic specialist who can provide good treatment options for your trigger finger, look no further than Movement Orthopedics in Clinton Township. We can help you choose the best treatment plan for your condition, and we offer a wide array of medical services to help keep you active and enjoying life.
To find out more or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at (586) 436-3785 or fill out our online form now. We look forward to helping you address your hand pain!
