Why is my finger not bending properly?
A fairly common complaint we hear from patients in our clinic is that one or more of their fingers is catching or locking. This condition is referred to as “trigger finger”. It can initially be non-painful. However, if it is allowed to continue, it can worsen and become very painful over time.
Trigger finger may be isolated to one finger or thumb or it may affect multiple digits. The symptoms usually involve sticking or catching of the finger with flexion or extension. As it worsens, it may also lock in a flexed position. A tender lump may develop in the area where the finger is catching. Statistics show that more females than males are affected by trigger finger, with the typical age group being 40-60 years olds. The presence of diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis can increase the likelihood for trigger finger to occur. Activities that put a strain on the hand, such as painting or weeding a garden, can also contribute to this condition.
When a person wants to flex their fingers, the muscles in the arm contract, pulling on tendons that pass through the hand. These tendons pass through tunnels in the hand en route to the finger. For several reasons, the tendon may develop a cyst or nodule. The tunnel itself may narrow because of inflammation. Whether it is the tendon thickening or the tunnel becoming narrow, the result is that the tendon catches and causes the finger to “trigger”.
Treatment for this condition may include avoiding the activity that caused the symptoms to start. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories or steroid injections are sometimes used, but with a lesser degree of success. The most reliable treatment is a trigger finger release in which an orthopedic surgeon makes a very small incision over the tunnel and opens it. This allows the tendon to freely glide through the tunnel without restriction. This is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure that typically gives excellent results.
If you or friends are having these types of symptoms, see your orthopedic surgeon to further discuss treatment options.
Dave Stoll, PA-C
Orthopedic Care in the office of Jon Orjala, D.O.
Utica Park Clinic – Owasso
10512 N. 110th East Ave., Suite 220
Owasso, OK 74055
918.376.8959
