Causative & risk factors
Trigger finger can occur as a result of repetitive, forceful movements of a finger. Hence it is common in occupations involving the use of tools, musical instruments etc.
Older adults beyond the age of 40 are more likely to develop trigger finger. Women have a slightly higher risk.
Clinical presentation
Soreness is felt at the base of the affected finger. The finger may be stiff especially in the mornings. When the patient tries to bend it, the finger will click or lock into the bent position. The finger may straighten spontaneously like a trigger or it may have to be manually straightened with the help of other fingers.
Investigations
The patient’s symptoms and a physical examination of the affected finger are adequate to make a diagnosis of trigger finger. No further investigations are necessary.
Treatment
The affected finger must be rested; splinting must be done for this purpose. Anti-inflammatory medications are prescribed. Some patients may receive steroidal injections in the affected finger. An ultrasound guided procedure may be performed where a needle is inserted into the affected finger to open the tendon sheath. If nothing else works, surgery is performed to remove the constricted portion of the tendon sheath.
