Trigger Finger Specialist

What is a trigger finger?

A trigger finger is a condition where a finger gets stuck or locked in a bent position. It might snap when you straighten it, just like a trigger. A trigger finger develops when inflammation narrows the space surrounding a tendon in the affected finger. Treatment at Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services can restore your finger’s normal structure and function. 

What are the symptoms of a trigger finger?

Common symptoms of trigger finger include:

• Clicking or popping with finger movement
• Finger joint stiffness
• Finger locking or catching
• Inability to straighten your finger
• Tender bump at the base of your finger

Trigger finger may affect any of your fingers, more than one finger at a time, and even affect your thumb. You might have a trigger finger in both of your hands. Symptoms are usually more severe in the morning, 

What are the risk factors for trigger fingers?

Anyone can develop a trigger finger, but factors that increase your risk of having it include:

• Diabetes
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Repeated gripping
• Past carpal tunnel surgery
• Being a woman

Properly managing a chronic disease if you have one, and avoiding repeated gripping may reduce your risk of experiencing trigger finger. 

How does my provider diagnose trigger fingers?

To find out if you have a trigger finger and develop an effective treatment, the experts at Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services review your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history. 

They examine your fingers, ask you to open and close your hands and look for signs of discomfort and finger locking. Your orthopaedic specialist also feels for lumps in the palm of your hand that move as your finger moves.

How are trigger fingers treated?

Your personalized trigger finger treatment plan may include:

Medications 

Taking medications can reduce inflammation associated with the trigger finger.

Home remedies

Resting the affected finger, avoiding repetitive motions, wearing a splint, and doing physical therapy can reduce negative symptoms of the trigger finger. 

Injections

Steroid injections into a trigger finger can reduce inflammation and improve the range of motion. 

Percutaneous release

After numbing the treatment area, your provider inserts a needle into tissues surrounding the affected tendon to break up constriction and improve finger movement. They may use ultrasound guidance to maximize precision and accuracy. 

Surgery

The Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services team offers surgery to cut restricted tendon sheaths responsible for the trigger finger.

Don’t struggle with a debilitating trigger finger when you don’t have to. Schedule an appointment with the Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services by phone or online today.