Trigger Finger Treatment in Arlington, VA
Trigger finger, or stenosing tenosynovitis, is a painful condition that causes one finger to become stuck in a bent position, then suddenly snap straight. Oftentimes, trigger finger develops when a finger tendon sheath becomes irritated and inflamed through repetitive gripping motions, such as those involved in gardening and playing some musical instruments. Inflammation can narrow the space within the protective sheath that surrounds a finger tendon, which can interfere with the smooth movement of the tendon. This type of inflammation is also associated with certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and gout.
What Are the Symptoms of Trigger Finger?
Initially, a trigger finger may feel painful and stiff. A popping or clicking sensation may be felt during movement. Usually, the discomfort worsens with rest and improves with activity. As the condition progresses, a visible bump may form over the affected finger joint.
A physician can diagnose the problem after evaluating the symptoms and performing a physical examination of the affected finger and hand. Specifically, the physician will check for painful areas, smoothness of motion, and evidence of locking.
How Is It Treated?
Treatment can vary based on the severity and duration of the symptoms. A mild case may resolve after a period of rest and avoidance of activities that aggravate the condition, such as gripping and grasping. A finger splint may be worn to restrict movement and allow the inflammation to subside. In the meantime, gentle exercises may be performed to maintain flexibility in the affected finger.
To address moderate trigger finger symptoms, a physician may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and inflammation or administer a steroid injection near or into the inflamed tendon sheath to reduce swelling. In very severe cases, trigger finger release surgery may be considered to enlarge the tendon tunnel so that the tendon can glide through it more easily.
Consult With a Hand Specialist in Arlington
At Nirschl Orthopaedic Center (NOC) in Arlington, Virginia, you can discuss your trigger finger symptoms with Cassie G. Root, M.D., a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who has earned a Subspecialty Certificate in Surgery of the Hand from the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. As a hand and wrist specialist, Dr. Root offers a full range of conservative and surgical treatments for trigger finger and other hand, wrist, and finger conditions.
If you’d like to review your options for trigger finger treatment with Dr. Root, please contact Nirschl Orthopaedic Center at (703) 525-2200 to schedule an appointment at our state-of-the-art orthopedic center in Arlington, VA.