What is Trigger Finger
Tendons of the fingers become inflamed which thicken over time (fibrosis) into nodules. The nodules become large, which then interfere with how the tendon moves through the sheath that surrounds the tendon like a tunnel.
The sheath and the tendon are supposed to work in harmony to reduce friction when moving. The nodule becomes too large to slide through the sheath without sticking or catching which limits the fingers to straighten out. Often times people will have to assist the finger the straighten out with the other hand.
Trigger Finger Treatment
- How we handle Trigger Finger Treatment
- Instrument assisted soft tissue manipulation to break up the adhesion within the tendon
- Stretching and strengthening of the involved hand
What Causes Trigger Finger
Trigger finger is caused by repetitive motions that gradually inflame the tendons of the fingers. This injury most often occurs in patients whose crafts or hobbies require frequent gripping and repetitive hand use. Holding vibrating tools can also cause the nodules to form.
Patients with pre-existing conditions may also be more prone to developing trigger finger. Diseases like diabetes, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid conditions can all contribute to developing trigger finger.
- Gardening
- Crafting
- Playing an Instrument
- Jewelry Making
- Crocheting, Sewing, Crafting
- Using Power Tools
- Trauma or Injury to the Finger
Signs of Trigger Finger
The symptoms of trigger finger are generally distinct and can help alert you to the pain and injury before it worsens. When you notice trigger finger signs and symptoms, you want to schedule treatment ASAP to help restore full function and mobility while also helping with pain relief.
- Stiff finger joint, particularly in the morning
- Pops or clicks as your finger moves
- Tenderness or weakness in the finger
- Bumps at the base of the finger
- “Locked” finger — either straight or bent
- Finger pain, particularly at the base or when applied pressure
Trigger Finger FAQ
At Elite Chiropractic and Sport in Columbia, MD, we treat trigger finger with Grason Technique to help break up the formed adhesions and strengthening exercises to build back up to mobility. This non-invasive treatment helps with inflammation and dexterity.
Yes. At Elite Chiropractic and Sport, our trigger finger treatment focuses on Graston Technique to break up the adhesions that have formed. This is a non-invasive treatment that helps restore mobility in combination with physical therapy exercises.
Trigger finger occurs due to repetitive motions like gardening, crocheting, sewing, using power tools, and other actions that involve a strong and repetitive grip.
Patients often try to find ways to reduce the inflammation in the finger, like with epson salt baths or heat and ice applications. Once you notice the stiffening or pain in the finger, it is best to schedule trigger finger treatment in Columbia, MD to help with long-term solutions.