Trigger Finger
If you wake up in the morning and your thumb or finger is “locked” in a flexed position, you may have a trigger finger. Trigger finger is inflammation around the tendons to your fingers or thumb. Tendons are held in place on the bones by a series of ligaments called pulleys. Irritation to the tendon may cause a nodule to form, which makes it difficult for the tendon to slide through the pulley. When the tendon catches and then suddenly releases, you feel a “triggering” sensation.
SYMPTOMS:
- One of the first symptoms of trigger finger is soreness at the base of the finger or thumb.
- The most common symptom is a painful clicking or snapping when bending or straightening the finger.
- In some cases, the finger or thumb locks in a bent or straight position as the condition gets worse and must be gently straightened with the other hand.
THERAPY:
The treatment for a trigger finger is aimed at decreasing the inflammation around the tendon, which includes:
- Resting the finger or thumb.
- Sometimes a splint is used
- Taking oral anti-inflammatory medication.
- A small injection of cortisone into the area of inflammation.
- If conservative treatments do not relieve your symptoms then a trigger finger release may be performed to open the pulley and allow the tendon to glide smoothly again.
We're here to help!
Geelong, Vic 3220
Appointments
Geelong
Mon to Fri 8:30am to 5pm
Drysdale Clinic
Currently not attending this location
Lara Physio
Currently not attending this location
North Geelong
Wednesday 8:30am - 12pm