All About Trigger Finger

There are many different types of repetitive stress injuries that may affect an individual.

One of these types of injuries is known as trigger finger. This is a problem that could just be a minor annoyance, but it could also degenerate into a condition that causes the afflicted individual to feel much pain and limits their range of motion.

Most often, these problems are developed due to an overuse and abuse of a certain limb, digit, muscle, or other body part.

In this article, we’ll discuss the syndrome known as trigger finger, informing you about what the problem is, as well as how it can be developed and the methods that doctors use in order to treat it.

The tendons that allow the bones of our body to move can only do so because of the passageways that are provided through ligaments. Normally, the tendons can move through the ligaments smoothly and effectively, allowing motion to occur naturally and without pain.

In the case of trigger finger, the tendon sheath can become inflamed, causing it to move improperly through the finger. When this occurs, a case of trigger finger is the result. A nodule may form due to the aggravation, and it will grow in size until the problem is treated. If the nodule grows to be big enough, the afflicted individual will be unable to properly move their finger. The causes of trigger finger can vary. It’s often experienced due to many tiny micro-tears in the ligament as a result of trauma.

When beginning treatment for a case of trigger finger, most doctors often prescribe plenty of rest for the afflicted area as well as using medications such as ibuprofen and aspirin.

These fall under the category of non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs used to reduce the swelling and inflammation. If a few weeks of rest and regular use of anti inflammatory drugs aren’t helping the situation, injections of steroids into the area may be used.

The use of cold packs can also be beneficial in reducing swelling and keeping the pain to a minimum. Massage has also shown to be of merit when it comes to reducing the size of the nodule that is present within the digit affected by trigger finger. Again, however,  the more serious cases of trigger finger may require minor surgery in order to be healed.

After a case of trigger finger has been successfully treated, a carefully selected exercise program can be helpful in preventing a future relapse of the injury. Stretching and strengthening exercises can be of intense benefit in keeping the problem to a minimum.

If you think that you may be experiencing the onset trigger finger, consult with your doctor in order to get a proper diagnosis. The longer that you wait to get treated, the harder it will be to eliminate the problem and get back to regular usage of the affected finger or fingers.