In short, trigger finger treatment typically follows a stepwise progression from conservative care to surgical intervention depending on the severity.
- Early conservative care. Splinting and rest often resolve mild symptoms effectively.
- Corticosteroid injection benefits. Injections offer relief for moderate cases without surgery.
- Surgical release options. Surgery provides a permanent solution when other treatments fail.
Your path to effective trigger finger treatment begins with understanding how the condition progresses over time. Trigger finger, or stenosing tenosynovitis, causes pain, stiffness, and a locking sensation that can disrupt daily life. This timeline guides patients through the standard stages of care and recovery.
What is The Reason for Trigger Finger?
Understanding the reason for trigger finger helps in selecting the right course of action. This condition occurs when the flexor tendon in the finger becomes irritated or inflamed. As a result, the tendon struggles to glide smoothly through the sheath surrounding it.
The tendon may develop a nodule or the sheath may thicken. This causes the finger to catch or lock in a bent position. While the exact cause is not always clear, medical experts link it to repetitive gripping actions.
Certain health conditions also increase the risk. For example, patients with diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis are more susceptible. Women are also more likely to develop this condition than men.
When Should I Start Trigger Finger Treatment?
You should seek medical advice as soon as you notice clicking or popping in your finger joints. Early trigger finger treatment is crucial for avoiding invasive procedures later. Ignoring the symptoms can lead to the finger becoming permanently stuck in a bent position.
The initial phase of the timeline focuses on reducing inflammation. This allows the tendon to glide freely again without catching. Immediate care can prevent the condition from becoming chronic.
What Does the First Month of Treatment Look Like?
The first four to six weeks typically involve non-surgical methods. Your hand specialist will likely recommend a combination of rest and mechanical support.
- Resting the hand. Avoid activities that require repetitive gripping.
- Wearing a splint. Keep the finger straight to rest the tendon.
- Applying ice packs. Reduce swelling and soothe inflamed tissues.
Over-the-counter medications are often suggested to manage pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) help decrease swelling.
Do Corticosteroid Injections Work?
If symptoms persist beyond six weeks, the timeline moves toward more direct intervention. A corticosteroid injection is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication delivered directly into the tendon sheath.
This is a common trigger finger treatment for moderate cases. The goal is to shrink the swelling of the tendon sheath quickly. Many patients experience relief within a few days of the injection.
How Does This Differ from Dupuytren’s Contracture Treatment?
It is important not to confuse these two hand conditions. While both affect the hand and fingers, Dupuytren’s contracture treatment addresses a different underlying issue. Dupuytren’s contracture involves the thickening of the fascia under the skin of the palm.
This condition pulls the fingers inward but does not involve the catching or popping sensation of the tendon. Trigger finger is specifically a tendon issue. Therefore, the treatment timeline for trigger finger focuses on the tendon sheath rather than the palmar fascia.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Surgery becomes an option when conservative trigger finger treatment fails or if the finger is locked permanently. This usually occurs after three to six months of failed non-surgical therapies.
The procedure is called a “trigger finger release.” The surgeon cuts the sheath that is restricting the tendon. This widens the tunnel so the tendon can glide easily again.
There are two main types of surgery:
- Open surgery. A small incision is made in the palm.
- Percutaneous release. A needle is used to divide the tissue.
Both are generally performed as outpatient procedures under local anesthesia. You will likely be able to move your finger immediately after the surgery.
How Long is the Recovery After Surgery?
The recovery timeline varies by individual but is generally quick. Most patients can move their fingers immediately after the anesthesia wears off.
- Days 1 – 3: You may experience some soreness at the incision site. Keep the hand elevated to reduce swelling.
- Days 7 – 10: If you had open surgery, your stitches will be removed. You should be able to use your hand for light activities.
- Weeks 2 – 4: Most patients return to full daily activities. Some may require hand therapy to regain a full range of motion.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hand Pain
Can Trigger Finger Go Away on Its Own?
Mild cases may resolve with rest, but chronic cases usually require medical intervention to prevent permanent stiffness.
Is the Surgery Painful?
The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so you feel no pain during it. Afterward, mild soreness is common but manageable with medication.
Can I Drive After the Procedure?
Most patients can drive within a few days once they are comfortable gripping the steering wheel.
Schedule Your Trigger Finger Treatment in Lutherville, Bel Air, Clarksville, Pasadena, and Westminster, MD
If you are experiencing pain or locking in your fingers, do not wait for it to worsen. Early diagnosis ensures a smoother recovery timeline.
At Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder, our board-certified specialists are dedicated to restoring your hand function and quality of life. We offer comprehensive care ranging from non-surgical therapies to advanced surgical options.
Contact Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder today at (410) 296-6232 or use our appointment form to discuss your trigger finger treatment.
