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What is a Trigger Finger?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

Often referred to as trigger thumb, trigger finger involves an irritation of the sheath that covers the flexor tendons within the finger. Often this causes the tendon sheath to swell, which in turn places pressure on the tendon. The pressure around the tendon interferes with the ability of the tendon to effect movement, and may even pinch the tendon so that the finger is drawn in toward the palm. It is because of the drawn nature of the finger that the condition is named trigger finger, since the pinched tendon usually pulls the finger into a position that is very similar to the way a finger is curled when operating the trigger on a firearm.

Trigger fingers should be treated as soon as the condition becomes apparent. Swelling will be the first sign of the condition, followed by an inability to straighten out the finger without experiencing pain. Dealing with the swelling is the first line of defense when it comes to the tendon irritation. A physician may choose to administer a corticosteroid shot at the base of the finger, although there are critics who believe that the corticosteroid only provides temporary relief.

Trigger finger, a repetitive strain injury, is often first treated with a splint.
Trigger finger, a repetitive strain injury, is often first treated with a splint.

Generally, the next step is to arrange for physical therapy. The main objective is to ease the swelling as soon as possible, while also ensuring that there is no residual damage to the tendon as a result of the swelling. In some instances, a splint may be employed, as well as the application of anti-inflammatory creams to help with the swelling. In very rare instances, outpatient surgery may be used to cut into the sheath around the tendon and relieve the pressure.

Anti-inflammatory creams that are applied topically may benefit people who suffer from trigger finger.
Anti-inflammatory creams that are applied topically may benefit people who suffer from trigger finger.

One of the reasons that therapy is so essential to the treatment of trigger thumbs is that the therapy can help to identify any conditions that may lead to a recurrence of the trigger finger. As the swelling eases, it is often easier to determine the origins for the situation, and effectively treat the reasons behind the first outbreak. By isolating the origin of the problem, it is possible to prevent the establishment of an ongoing cycle where the individual experiences another round of trigger finger every few months.

Physical therapy may be helpful in treating trigger finger.
Physical therapy may be helpful in treating trigger finger.

Trigger finger is not a condition that is limited to one sector of the population. Both men and women may experience trigger finger, with instances occurring in young people as well as persons past retirement age. Seeking treatment immediately will help to bring the condition under control in a short time, and possibly prevent any permanent damage to the tendons of the finger.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

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Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

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    • Trigger finger, a repetitive strain injury, is often first treated with a splint.
      By: Rob Byron
      Trigger finger, a repetitive strain injury, is often first treated with a splint.
    • Anti-inflammatory creams that are applied topically may benefit people who suffer from trigger finger.
      By: luiscarceller
      Anti-inflammatory creams that are applied topically may benefit people who suffer from trigger finger.
    • Physical therapy may be helpful in treating trigger finger.
      By: nebari
      Physical therapy may be helpful in treating trigger finger.
    • A massage may be beneficial for people suffering with trigger finger.
      By: lunamarina
      A massage may be beneficial for people suffering with trigger finger.