Trigger finger, or stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition where one of your fingers or thumbs gets stuck in a bent position and then straightens with a snap — like a trigger being pulled and released. It occurs when the affected finger’s tendon becomes inflamed or thickened, making it difficult to move smoothly within the digit.

Trigger finger or trigger thumb is very common, and one of the most frequent reasons why a patient visits Dr. Wartinbee.

• Does your finger or thumb pop or click?

• Does your finger or thumb get stuck down in your hand when you make a fist?

• Do you have to pull your digit to open it?

• Does your finger or thumb hurt at the base of the affected digit?

• Does your finger or thumb have difficulty straightening or bending?

Treatment options can include rest, splinting, and anti-inflammatory medications. Dr Wartinbee can often provide a steroid injection, which can often reliably improve and resolve a trigger digit.

In severe, long-standing, or failed non-operative cases, Dr. Wartinbee can often perform a minor surgery to release the affected tendon sheath, which can often significantly improve your hand function, with a brief recovery.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, often tailored to the individual’s situation, can effectively improve your hand function. Consulting Dr. Wartinbee for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan is crucial for managing your trigger finger effectively.