Trigger Finger Treatment in Columbia, SC

What is Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is when the flexor tendon which is responsible for finger mobility becomes trapped or inflamed inside the surrounding tissue. Even though it’s common, this ailment can interfere with the fluid coordination of hand movements, impacting your daily activities and lowering your quality of life.

Imagine yourself trying to bend or straighten a finger when all of a sudden it locks into place and requires deliberate effort to unlock. This may cause discomfort, pain, and limited finger mobility, making it difficult for you to hold objects, carry out daily duties, or even follow your passions.

What are the Symptoms of Trigger Finger?

Recognizing the symptoms of trigger finger is vital for early diagnosis and effective treatment. Common signs to be aware of include:

Finger stiffness – Difficulty in straightening or bending the affected finger
Finger locking – The finger may become stuck in a bent position and suddenly release
Popping sensation – A noticeable clicking or popping sensation during finger movement
Tenderness or swelling – Discomfort and swelling at the base of the affected finger
Pain – Pain or aching at the base of the finger or thumb
Nodule formation – The development of a small lump or nodule on the palm
Difficulty grasping – Challenges in gripping objects due to finger stiffness

If you have been experiencing trigger finger symptoms and you would like one of our hand and wrist physicians to help you, connect with us today!

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What Causes Trigger Finger?

Understanding the causes of trigger finger is essential for effective treatment and prevention. This condition typically develops when the flexor tendon, responsible for bending the fingers, becomes inflamed or irritated. Common factors contributing to trigger finger include:

Repetitive motion – Frequent and repetitive hand movements, such as gripping or typing
Medical conditions – Conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout can increase the risk
Age – Trigger finger is more common in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60
Gender – Women are more prone to developing trigger finger
Hand anatomy – Certain hand shapes and structures can predispose individuals to this condition

What are My Treatment Options for Trigger Finger?

Effective treatment for trigger finger is crucial for restoring finger mobility and alleviating discomfort. Depending on the severity and specific circumstances of your trigger finger, treatment may include:

Rest and activity modification – Giving the affected hand a break from repetitive movements
Hand exercises – Gentle exercises to improve finger flexibility and strength
Splinting – Wearing a splint to keep the affected finger in an extended position
Medications – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation
Corticosteroid injections – Injecting medication into the tendon sheath to reduce swelling
Surgical release – In severe cases, minimally invasive surgery is done to release the constricted tendon

Trigger Finger Care in South Carolina

Experience specialized care for trigger finger at Midland Orthopedics, your trusted orthopedic partner in Columbia. If you’re grappling with the challenges of trigger finger, our experienced orthopedic specialists are here to provide expert evaluation and personalized treatment solutions.

For more information, give us a call or schedule an appointment online with one of our hand and wrist specialists. Our orthopedic clinic has multiple locations. We serve patients in Columbia, SC, Irmo, SC, and Lexington, SC. We also have an urgent walk-in clinic in Downtown Columbia, SC.