Trigger Finger/Thumb Pain
Trigger finger/thumb is a condition that causes pain, stiffness and a sensation of locking or catching when you bend and straighten your finger/thumb.
Because of work or hobbies that require repetitive gripping actions, such are at higher risk of developing trigger finger/thumb. It is also more common in women and in anyone with diabetes.
Signs you might notice:
• Finger/thumb stiffness, particularly in morning
• Popping or clicking sensation as you move your finger/thumb
• Tenderness/bump (nodule) at the base of affected finger/thumb
• Finger/thumb catching or locking in a bent position, which suddenly pops straight
• Some report swelling of the digit
• Finger/thumb locked in a bent position, which you are unable to straighten
• Pain worsens while grasping something firmly
Cause:
The exact cause of trigger finger/thumb is still not evident. But in majority cases the condition may be the result of repetitive strain of the area due to work or hobby activities.
Tasks that require monotonous grasping or prolonged use of tools which press firmly on the tendon sheath at the base of the finger or thumb may irritate the tendons and result in thickening of the tendons themselves or the tendon sheath.
Trigger finger may also be associated with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout or diabetes that produce changes in the connective tissues and synovium or sometimes due to direct injury.
Treatment:
Initial treatment includes –
• Rest – Resting your hand and avoiding activities that make it worse may be enough to resolve the problem.
• Splinting – Wearing a splint at night to keep the affected finger or thumb in a straight position while you sleep may be helpful.
• Exercises – 1. Gentle stretching exercises can help decrease stiffness and improve range of motion. 2. Strengthening exercises using rubber-bands/resistance balls/towel rolls to gain/maintain strength in the muscles. 3. Mobility exercises like object pick-ups, paper/towel grasp, ‘O’ exercise, etc.
• Gentle tissue kneading to loosen-up the nodules/bumps.
• Gentle joint mobilization to relieve stiffness.
• Kinesiology taping – to support the muscles during movement.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound – helps reducing swelling & tenderness in tendon sheath & improves range.
• Heat packs to relax the soft tissues & ease the pain.
• TENS – to alleviate pain & stiffness.
In severe cases where conservative treatment doesn’t work, one has to undergo surgery. So, treat before it’s too late!
For further information, visit us at – Pooja Physiotherapy & Health Care Center Blk 77 Indus road #01-521S’160077. Call now @6384 5452 or Whatsapp @8322 3371 or Drop an email at info@physiopooja.com.sg
