Trigger Finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis in medical terms, is a common condition affecting the hand or finger joints. It involves the discomfort of the tendons responsible for bending the fingers and the pulleys (structures that the tendons pass under at specific points), commonly referred to as trigger finger or trigger thumb. This condition arises from swelling of the finger tendons and the constriction of the hand in a closed position. Trigger Finger typically manifests with symptoms such as catching, snapping, and pain during the bending or straightening of the fingers. It can also lead to restricted finger movements.
Tendons are long, cord-like structures that extend from the forearm muscles to the fingers. Pulleys are structures that the tendons pass under at specific points, regulating the movement of the tendons. These pulleys bring the tendon closer to the bone, facilitating smooth movement within tunnels.
Trigger Finger occurs when the pulley at the base of the finger thickens or due to swelling in the tendon sheath, causing catching and pain during finger movements. After the onset of this problem, using the finger often exacerbates the condition by further swelling these structures, sometimes leading to complete catching and finger locking.
While the exact cause is not fully understood, repetitive hand movements and certain health conditions can influence the development of trigger finger. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help alleviate symptoms and improve hand function.
Symptoms of Trigger Finger:
Causes of Trigger Finger:
Treatment for Trigger Finger:
