What Is Trigger Finger?

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a common hand disorder that affects the tendons in the fingers or thumb, causing pain, stiffness, and a sensation of locking or catching when bending and straightening the finger. This condition occurs when there is an imbalance between the tendon sheath and the flexor tendon, leading to inflammation and narrowing of the sheath, which restricts the smooth gliding motion of the tendon2 3.

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of trigger finger include:

• Pain at the base of the affected finger or thumb, particularly when gripping or grasping objects.
• A clicking or popping sensation when moving the finger.
• Stiffness and reduced range of motion, especially in the morning.
• A visible bump or nodule at the base of the finger.
• Locking or catching of the finger in a bent position, which may suddenly release with a snap2 4 6.

Causes and Risk Factors

Trigger finger is caused by the inflammation and thickening of the tendon sheath, which impedes the normal movement of the tendon. Several factors can increase the risk of developing trigger finger, including:

• Repetitive hand movements and gripping activities.
• Medical conditions such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Gender, with women being more commonly affected than men.
• Age, particularly individuals between the ages of 40 and 602 3 6.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of trigger finger is primarily based on the patient’s medical history and a physical examination. During the examination, the doctor will look for signs of tenderness, swelling, and triggering. In some cases, imaging tests such as ultrasound may be used to assess the thickness of the tendon and the presence of any nodules3 4.

Conclusion

Trigger finger is a prevalent condition that can significantly impact hand function and quality of life. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and risk factors is crucial for early diagnosis and management. While various treatment options are available, the choice of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health.

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please seek immediate attention from a healthcare provider.