Trigger Finger Release

If you need a trigger finger release, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is A Trigger Finger Release?

Trigger finger, or stenosing tenosynovitis, occurs when tendons in the fingers or thumb become inflamed, making it hard to straighten the affected finger. The finger may “catch” or “lock” in a bent position, often with pain, stiffness, and swelling. When rest, splinting, or corticosteroid injections don’t help, doctors may recommend trigger finger release surgery to restore function and relieve pain.

Causes of Trigger Finger

Trigger finger develops when the tendon controlling finger movement becomes irritated or inflamed. The tendon sheath narrows, hindering smooth tendon movement. This narrowing causes the tendon to catch or lock. Several factors can contribute to trigger finger, including:

  • Repetitive Motion: Activities like typing or gripping that involve repetitive hand movements increase the risk.
  • Underlying Conditions: Health conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout can make trigger finger more likely.
  • Age: Adults, especially between 40 and 60, commonly develop this condition.

Symptoms of Trigger Finger

Trigger finger symptoms can vary, but they usually include:

  • Pain: Pain at the base of the finger or thumb, especially when trying to straighten or bend the finger.
  • Stiffness: Difficulty moving the finger, particularly in the morning.
  • Locking or Catching: The finger may catch or lock in a bent position before suddenly straightening with a “snap.”
  • Swelling: Swelling at the base of the finger or thumb due to tendon inflammation.

Without treatment, the condition can worsen, leading to more frequent locking and difficulty performing daily tasks.

Trigger Finger Release Procedure

Trigger finger release surgery alleviates pain and restores normal function by releasing the constricted tendon sheath. This procedure typically takes place on an outpatient basis and follows these steps:

  1. Anesthesia: Surgeons administer local anesthesia to numb the area, and sometimes use sedation.
  2. Incision: The surgeon makes a small incision at the base of the finger or palm to access the tendon sheath.
  3. Release: The surgeon cuts the constricted tendon sheath, allowing the tendon to move freely.
  4. Closure: The surgeon closes the incision with sutures and applies a dressing.

The procedure usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the severity of the condition.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

After surgery, patients typically return home the same day. Doctors bandage the hand, and patients may wear a splint briefly to keep the finger in a neutral position. Swelling and mild pain are common in the first few days but can be controlled with pain medication and ice.

Rehabilitation focuses on restoring the finger’s full range of motion. Physical therapy can improve flexibility and strength, helping patients regain full use of the hand. Most patients return to light activities within a few weeks, with full recovery typically taking 4 to 6 weeks.

Benefits of Trigger Finger Release

Trigger finger release surgery offers several benefits:

  • Pain Relief: The procedure provides long-term relief from trigger finger pain.
  • Improved Mobility: It restores normal finger movement, making daily tasks easier.
  • Minimal Recovery Time: The minimally invasive procedure allows for a quick recovery with few complications.

 

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.