Got a Stuck Finger? Learn about Trigger Finger!

🖐️ Discover the ins and outs of trigger finger—what causes it, how to recognize it, and the best treatments to get you back in action! 💪 #TriggerFinger #HealthTips #FamilyMedicine

What is a trigger finger?

This is a condition that prevents a finger from straightening normally. It happens when a tendon in the finger and the covering around it get inflamed. (Tendons are strong bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones.)

When trying to straighten the finger, it can get stuck in a bent position. It can affect 1 or several fingers.

Anyone can get trigger finger. But it is more common in females between 40 and 60 years old and people with certain conditions, including diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and amyloidosis.

Trigger finger prevents a finger from straightening normally. When a person tries to straighten their finger, it “locks” or “catches” in a bent position. Source: https://www.uptodate.com/services/app/contents/graphic/view/PI/80186/TriggerFingerPI.jpg

What can you do to feel better?

Rest – Try to rest your finger. Avoid movements that make the pain worse, like pinching or grabbing things.
Take pain medicines – Ask your doctor or nurse before taking new pain medicines if you.
Tape your finger – If your symptoms are mild, it might help to tape your affected finger to a healthy finger next to it. This is called “buddy taping.”

Finger buddy taping means taping an injured finger to the finger next to it.
You can tape the index (pointer) and middle fingers together, or the ring and little (pinky) fingers together. It is better **not** to tape the middle and ring fingers together. Source: https://www.uptodate.com/services/app/contents/graphic/view/PI/82595/Buddytaping.jpg

Wear a splint – It might help to wear a splint that keeps your finger straight. Some people get relief from wearing a splint only while they sleep. These splints are sold in pharmacies and medical supply stores.

Example of a simple splint for trigger finger. Source: https://www.uptodate.com/services/app/contents/graphic/view/RHEUM/101355/Almfmtrggrfngrsplnt.jpg

How is trigger finger treated?

The first step is to try the things you can do on your own. If you do not get better, or your symptoms are severe, your doctor might suggest:

A custom splint for your finger – Your doctor, nurse, or another health professional can make this for you.
Shots of a “steroid” medicine – These shots go into your hand. They can help with swelling.
Surgery – This is only an option for some people who do not get better with other treatments.

Conclusion

Trigger finger may sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but it’s a real condition that many people face. If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Reference: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/trigger-finger-stenosing-flexor-tenosynovitis?search=trigger%20finger&sectionRank=3&usage_type=default&anchor=H256644047&source=machineLearning&selectedTitle=1~29&display_rank=1#H256644047

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