Trigger finger is caused by disruption of the tendon that controls finger movement due to swelling or a lump. Instead of moving smoothly, the affected tendon doesn’t slide properly into its sheath. This can make it difficult to open and close your finger. For patients suffering from trigger finger, here are your treatment options from Granite Orthopaedics.
How Is Trigger Finger Treated?
Treatment options for trigger fingers can be surgical or non-surgical, including:
Non-Surgical Treatment
For mild cases of trigger finger, a doctor may recommend non-surgical treatment. These may include taking anti-inflammatory medication by mouth to reduce swelling and resting the affected finger. Anti-inflammatory medicines include aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen.
If these medicines don’t lower the swelling, other non-surgical treatments include anti-inflammatory injections of cortisone in the finger or thumb’s base. A successful treatment can reduce the swelling of the tendon sheath, opening it up so that the tendon slides easily in and out, allowing the finger to straighten and bend more easily.
Surgical Treatment
If non-surgical treatments don’t give you the relief you are looking for, your doctor may recommend surgery for your trigger finger. Surgery is used to open the tendon sheath, enlarge the space inside, and release the tendon to give it free movement. This procedure restores normal movement to the finger for bending and straightening.
Trigger finger surgery is relatively quick. It takes about twenty minutes and is often done using local anesthesia. This surgery is usually outpatient, meaning that you can go home the same day as the surgery.
After surgery, the doctor will wrap your hand in a soft bandage. A plaster splint worn after surgery will help stabilize the finger and keep it from getting bumped or jolted. This reduces any pain you may have for a more comfortable healing process. Your stitches will stay in for about two weeks or dissolve in approximately the same amount of time.
When you consult your doctor regarding your treatment options, they will explain any risks and complications and the results you expect.
Schedule a Trigger Finger Consultation at Granite Orthopaedics
Are you struggling with a trigger finger? Contact Granite Orthopaedics to schedule a consultation at one of our offices in Prescott or Prescott Valley, AZ. Contact us at 928-777-9950 or go online and fill out a contact form.
