The ability to bend a finger is something we often don’t think about, especially with how much we use our hands daily. However, a condition called trigger finger makes it difficult and painful for you to perform simple movements such as simply bending a finger. It also causes a catching sensation or stiffness, which is a hassle since you use your fingers for so many daily activities.
Luckily, conservative treatments such as physical therapy can remedy your condition. Read on to find out how a trigger finger specialist can help and where to find the best provider in Clinton Township, Michigan.
What Is Trigger Finger?
Tendons are bands of tissues attaching muscles to bones. They are surrounded by protective sheaths, which they are typically able to glide through easily. When a tendon’s sheath becomes inflamed, it will result in your fingers getting stuck in a bent position. Flexing or straightening that finger also causes a snapping sound.
Trigger finger often happens in people whose work or hobbies require repetitive gripping actions, such as musicians and farmers. Certain health conditions also increase your risk of developing trigger finger, such as:
- Diabetes
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Prior carpal tunnel syndrome surgery
Age and gender also play a part. Trigger finger is more likely to develop in people between the age of 40 and 60 and is more common in women.
What Are The Symptoms Of Trigger Finger?
Any finger can be affected by trigger finger, including the thumb. One or more fingers could also be affected, and sometimes it can happen in both hands. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, including:
- Stiffness in the finger, which is usually worse in the morning
- Popping, snapping or clicking sensation when moving the finger
- Tenderness or soreness at the base of the finger
- Inability to fully flex the finger
- Finger catching or locking in a bent position
- A swollen lump in the palm or at the base of the finger
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above, it’s best to consult with a trigger finger specialist – especially if your finger joint is swollen or inflamed, as these are symptoms of an infection.
Diagnosis of trigger finger doesn’t require any elaborate testing. Usually, it only takes a physical exam and a study of your medical history.
Why Choose Physical Therapy For Trigger Finger?
Treatment for trigger finger differs depending on your condition’s severity. Surgery is only recommended for cases where conservative methods fail to work.
Your doctor will first advise you to rest and limit activity using your finger. You can use a splint for this purpose. However, rest should be partnered with physical therapy to increase your hand’s mobility and strength.
Here are some physical therapy methods that can help relieve trigger finger symptoms:
Manual Therapy
This method includes gentle massaging and other manual therapy techniques to release scar tissue, reduce pain, and restore your ability to bend the affected finger.
Stretching Exercises
Limiting your affected finger’s activity can lead to stiffness. Thus, stretching exercises are a must for your healing. Your physical therapist will teach you how to perform the movements. When done regularly, you can expect these exercises to help you regain range of motion.
Strengthening Exercises
In addition to exercises for mobility, your physical therapist will include movements designed to strengthen your hands in your treatment plan. Increasing muscular support will remove stress from the affected tendon and speed up your recovery.
Other Therapy Modalities
Manual therapy combined with the stretching and strengthening exercises will encourage the normal gliding motion of your tendon to return. However, other than these techniques, your physical therapist may opt to use other modalities.
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy and ultrasound therapy have been proven to be effective in:
- Reducing pain
- Alleviating discomfort
- Restoring motion
Trigger Finger Specialist Near Me In Clinton Township, MI
Trigger finger can get in the way of your daily activities. If your job requires the repeated use of your fingers, it can be all the more frustrating. However, there is no need to suffer. With the help of a specialist, you’ll be able to regain movement in no time and go back to bending your fingers without much thought.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of trigger finger, Movement Orthopedics is the perfect place to get urgent care. Our board-certified healthcare providers can diagnose and treat a wide range of hand, wrist, and elbow conditions, including trigger finger. You can trust us to come up with a specialized treatment plan and provide you with the compassionate care you deserve.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation with us, call us today at (586) 436-3785. You may also request an appointment online now. We look forward to serving you!
