Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is when your finger gets stuck in a bent position and will suddenly snap straight, like pulling and releasing a trigger. This common condition can affect any of your fingers or thumb, causing discomfort, swelling and pain. In more severe cases the finger will get stuck in the bent position and need to be manually straightened.
A trigger finger splint is one of the recommended treatments for mild cases of this condition. It keeps the finger straight and prevents it from bending, allowing the tendon to rest and heal.
Symptoms of Trigger Finger
The main symptom of trigger finger is the locking, or triggering of the affected finger. Symptoms tend to get worse in the morning or after a period of inactivity, the finger or thumb will feel stiff. You may also experience tenderness, pain and swelling near the middle joint or at the base of the affected digit.
Common signs are:
- Stiffness in the morning
- A popping or clicking sensation when you move your finger
- Finger locked in a bent or straight position
- Tenderness or a bump (nodule) in the palm
- Discomfort or pain when gripping or bending the finger
In some cases other medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to trigger finger.
How Does a Splint Work?
A finger splint immobilises the finger or thumb, keeps it straight. This reduces the strain on the tendon and allows the tendon sheath to heal. For trigger thumb, splints are designed to keep the thumb straight and in neutral position. These splints are worn for several hours a day depending on the severity of the condition.
Low Profile Splints for Trigger Finger
Modern finger splints are now low profile, meaning they are lightweight, comfortable, and easy to wear. Many splints are made from plastic or soft, durable materials like gel tubes and rings, providing flexibility and support without restricting movement in other digits.
If you’re looking for a reliable option, companies like Arthro-Eze, which specialises in finger splints, offer a variety of designs to suit different needs. It’s often helpful to consult a hand therapist or occupational therapist to find the one that suits you best.
Non Surgical Treatment Options for Trigger Finger
In many mild cases trigger finger can be treated without surgery. Several non-invasive treatments can help relieve symptoms and heal. Common non surgical options are:
Rest and Splinting
Wearing a splint can be very helpful in allowing the tendon to heal. Resting the affected finger or thumb and avoiding activities that may aggravate the condition can help to reduce symptoms. In some cases splints are worn for several weeks to give the tendon enough time to heal.
Steroid Injections
Steroid injections are prescribed to reduce swelling and inflammation. A steroid injection is injected near the affected tendon, reduces tenderness and allows the finger to move more freely. A second injection may be needed if symptoms don’t improve after the first treatment.
Exercises and Therapy
Working with a hand therapist or occupational therapist can help to relieve pain and improve mobility. They may suggest specific exercises to move the finger and strengthen the tendons. Simple finger exercises can improve flexibility and prevent stiffness.
Surgical Options for Trigger Finger
If non surgical treatments don’t work, surgery may be needed. The most common surgical procedure is open surgery or small incision technique where the surgeon makes a small cut in the tendon sheath to give more space for the tendon to move freely.
Post Surgical Care
After surgery rest the affected finger and avoid any strenuous activities that may re-injure the tendon. The wound needs time to heal and some discomfort, swelling and stiffness may persist for a few weeks. Exercises and regular follow up with your doctor is crucial for full recovery. Most people go back to normal activities within several weeks but healing time may vary.
What is Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger occurs when the tendon sheath that surrounds the tendon becomes inflamed or swollen and restricts the movement of the tendon. The inflammation irritates the tendon and gets stuck in bent or locked position.
Trigger finger can be caused by:
- Repetitive gripping or straining of the hands
- Injury or trauma to the hands
- Medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
- Jobs that require frequent hand movements and pressure on the fingers, heavy manual work
How to Prevent Trigger Finger
If you have had trigger finger or at risk due to your job, there are ways to reduce the risk of getting it. Wearing supportive splints, using gel tubes to relieve pressure and doing hand exercises to maintain flexibility can help prevent future episodes.
When to see a Doctor
If you have painful, swollen or locked fingers, see a doctor. Early treatment can avoid surgery and better outcome.
Summary
A trigger finger splint is a useful tool for trigger finger symptoms especially in early stages. From splints to steroid injections and exercises there are many treatments that can help relieve symptoms, heal and prevent the condition from getting worse.
In summary, getting a finger splint in the early stages of trigger finger can save you from many trips to the doctor in the future.
