From the Guidelines
Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a common condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath, resulting in painful clicking or locking of the affected finger 1.
Key Characteristics
- Inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath
- Painful clicking or locking of the affected finger
Treatment Options
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen 200-400mg orally three times daily
- Corticosteroid injections with triamcinolone acetonide 10-20mg per injection, with a maximum of three injections spaced at least 4-6 weeks apart 1
- In severe cases, surgical release of the affected tendon sheath may be necessary, with a typical post-operative rehabilitation period of 2-4 weeks
Additional Considerations
- Rest and eccentric strengthening exercises can help alleviate symptoms and promote tendon healing 1
- Cryotherapy and topical NSAIDs may also be effective for short-term pain relief 1
From the Research
Definition of Trigger Finger
- Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a common condition that causes entrapment of the flexor tendon at the site of the annular pulley 2.
- It is a stenosing flexor tenosynovitis of the fingers, representing a common tendinopathy 3.
- Trigger finger is a common pathology of the fingers causing functional deficit of the hand 4.
- It is one of the most common causes of pain and disability in the hand, which may often require treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroid injection, or open surgery 5.
Characteristics of Trigger Finger
- Trigger finger occurs when movement of a finger flexor tendon through the first annular (A1) pulley is impaired by degeneration, inflammation, and swelling 6.
- It causes pain and restricted movement of the affected finger 6.
- The condition can cause functional deficit of the hand 4.
- Trigger finger can be treated with various methods, including non-surgical and surgical options 3, 2, 5, 6.