Trigger Finger

Trigger finger is a condition that causes your fingers to get stuck in a bent position. Those with a trigger finger may have stiffness when bending the finger(s) or hear snapping and popping when moving the finger(s). It is seen in young children and middle aged individuals though it may occur at any age.

The structure which helps to bend the fingers is known as tendon. At the base of the finger, the tendon passes through a tunnel like structure , known as pulley. When the size of the tendon becomes more than that of the pulley, the tendon does not easily glide. It can get stuck and produce a noticeable click or pop.

Adults often present with noticeable click or pop in. Occasionally the finger may be locked in a bend position and needs assistance to make it straight.

The precise timing of surgery in children dependent on multiple factors, including the age of the child, degree of deformity and patience of the family. A delay in surgery upto 2 years of age in a child is not detrimental . only children with painful triggering and rigid deformity are advised surgery before 2 years of age.

In adults different treatment modalities are tried. Activity modification, massaging and splinting are tried initially. In non diabetic patients , injection of cortico steroid is attempted. Recurrence may occur after the injection. Surgical release is a minor day care procedure in adults. Patient gets immediate relief and recurrences are extremely rare.