# Trigger Finger

- Link: https://carolinaona.com/trigger-finger/
- Published: 2019-02-05T20:37:28-05:00
- Author: Dallas Clifton

# Trigger Finger

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### Trigger Finger Overview

Trigger finger occurs when a finger catches or locks as it flexes or straightens.
Trigger finger symptoms make it difficult to use the fingers and hand, especially
if the finger remains locked. An appointment with a Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical
Associates’ (CONA) hand specialist should be made as soon as symptoms present. Delaying
treatment makes trigger finger worse.

## **Symptoms & Causes**

Trigger finger symptoms include:

 * A catching, locking or popping sensation when the finger moves
 * A tender lump
 * Pain
 * Stiffness

Common trigger finger risk factors include:

 * Diabetes
 * Occupations that involve forceful or frequent hand and finger use
 * Rheumatoid arthritis

## **Common Treatments:**

An early trigger finger diagnosis is very important because nonsurgical treatment
options can be used to effectively reduce symptoms and prevent the condition from
becoming worse. After a thorough evaluation, a CONA hand specialist may recommend:

 * A corticosteroid injection
 * A custom made splint
 * Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications
 * Rest
 * Stretching exercises

Surgery may be recommended to treat severe trigger finger, especially if the finger
remains in a locked position. During a trigger finger release, a CONA hand specialist
carefully excises the tendon sheath so the tendon has more room to move. Symptoms
dramatically decrease shortly if not immediately after the procedure.