Dr. Pedro Loredo Hand Surgeon Dallas Fort Worth at Hand Associates of North Dallas
Trigger finger
Trigger finger is a disorder in which the finger locks in a bent position. The finger will snap or pop when finger is straightened. Just like when a trigger from a firearm is being pulled and released.
Trigger finger occurs due to irritation and inflammation with in the tendon space. The irritation and inflammation is developed from: trauma, medicines, illnesses, repetitive activity, work, age, infections, tendonitis, and heavy hand use.
The Tendon is secured to the bone of the fingers and palm with tendon sheaths. The purpose of the tendons sheaths is to keep the tendons from bowing and for assisting with finger function.
Once the tendon spaces narrows from inflammation and irritation, the tendon it self begins to thicken and develop nodules. Which then cause a very narrow tendon space.
The major area where tendon is affected is at zone 2 of the flexor compartment of the palm. To be more specific the A-1 Pulley is the area of tendon compression.
Symptoms Dr. Pedro Loredo at Hand Associates of North Dallas, normally sees with Trigger Finger
Stiffness of the finger
Locking of the finger
Popping of the finger
Finger pain
Swelling
A nodule on the palm that is tender
Finger that catches
Trigger
Discomfort on the palm
Finger weakness
Trigger finger can affect any of the fingers. Commonly occurs in the ring finger and thumb. It can occur in multiple fingers at a time or even both hands. Trigger finger presents itself more commonly in the morning causing hand / finger stiffness. Also trigger finger can be seen during working heavly with the hands while firmly grasping an object.
Dr. Pedro Loredo's Hand Surgeon at Hand Associates of North Dallas, treatments are
Non-Operative and Operative
Non-Operative
- NSAIDS- non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Steroid injection
- Therapy
- Rest
- Stretching exercises
- Ice or Heat
- Splinting at night
Operative
- Open trigger finger release
- Endoscopic trigger release
Hand Associates of North Dallas