Is there pain when you flex and straighten your fingers?

Do you hear a clicking sensation when you bend any of your fingers or thumb? Is there pain when flexing or straightening your fingers? Do you feel tenderness near the base of a digit? If so, you may have trigger finger.

In most cases, the causes of trigger finger are constant and/or harsh movements or irritation that is due to rheumatoid arthritis, tendon lacerations, or repeated trauma. Once the synovium is damaged, a nodule may form in the tendon. Sometimes, orthopedic surgeons will only place a splint on the affected finger, teach you special exercises, or inject cortisone. Most of the time, though, surgery may be deemed necessary.

Trigger finger release is an out-patient procedure wherein the surgeon makes a small incision at the site of the obstruction. The ligament section is carefully cut to stop the interruption in the tendon movement. The incision is then stitched up and the ligament will repair itself.

The hand will be wrapped in bandage for about two days then a band aid will replace it to protect the incision until the stitches are removed. There will be tenderness in the area, but you can already begin a gentle range of motion within a couple of days. Physical therapy may also be recommended to improve the strength of your hand.

Are you worried about painful flexing and straightening of your fingers? Schedule an appointment with your local orthopedic surgeon in Asheboro NC and ask about trigger finger release.