Trigger Finger Specialist in Fort Myers, FL, and Port Charlotte, FL

Often called trigger thumb or stenosing tenosynovitis, trigger finger is an extremely common and treatable condition. Inflammation of the flexor tendons in the palm causes it to occur in both fingers and thumbs. Non-surgical methods can often ease trigger finger symptoms, but surgery may be required in some cases.

Generally, trigger finger is diagnosed by primary care doctors, such as general practitioners, family practitioners, and internists. A variety of specialists treat trigger finger, including orthopedic surgeons, sports medicine doctors, plastic surgeons, hand surgeons, and rheumatologists. Trigger finger patients can be treated by occupational therapists and physical therapists.

When seeking treatment for trigger finger patients may benefit from the highly specialized approach of a hand specialist such as an orthopedic hand doctor or a hand surgeon.

Generally, trigger finger does not pose a serious health risk. In mild cases, trigger finger can go away without treatment, so your doctor may suggest that you avoid activities that trigger the pain. When left untreated, trigger finger can become a permanent problem. As soon as symptoms appear, it is important to see a specialist.

Trigger finger is a progressive condition of the hand. Without proper treatment, trigger finger can worsen over time. Fingers can be locked in a bent position or a straight position (less common). It may be necessary to use your other hand to straighten the bent finger. It is possible for unaffected fingers to become stuck in a curled or straightened position as well. There is also a possibility that the accompanying symptoms, such as swelling, will become severe. Overall, the affected hand will be difficult to use. You may struggle to perform everyday tasks if you have an advanced trigger finger.

The finger is made up of strong connective tissue, called ligaments, which connect bones to bones, as well as tendons that attach muscles to bone. A thick, soft tissue called pulleys surrounds the outer lining of the tendons, known as the tenosynovium. Any changes to the tendons and tenosynoviums system can cause problems because it’s designed to have exactly the right size of each component. Under various circumstances, trigger finger can occur when this mechanism fails to operate properly. The tendon can become enlarged and not fit well through the pulley, resulting in trigger finger. The lining of the tendon can become thicker and not fit through the pulley well, resulting in trigger finger. The pulley can become thicker and decrease the opening for the tendon, causing trigger finger.

Several medical conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and diabetes, can cause trigger finger; repeated, strong gripping can also cause trigger finger, but in most cases, the cause is unknown.

People who use their hands and fingers extensively often experience these symptoms. Trigger finger can also be caused by needlework, heavy computer usage, and other repetitive, forceful activities. Diabetes, arthritis, and carpal tunnel syndrome are common causes of trigger finger. Injuries to the hand are sometimes remembered, but there is rarely a clear reason why trigger finger has occurred.

An injection of cortisone into the area adjacent to the tendon is often successful in treating trigger finger. After the injection, trigger finger treatment also involves the application of ice several times a day. Trigger finger surgery may be recommended if the injection is ineffective, or the symptoms recur. Florida Hand Center specializes in treating hand, wrist, and elbow problems. We serve patients from Port Charlotte FL, Fort Myers FL, Estero FL, Murdock FL, Charlotte Harbor FL, Punta Gorda FL, Harbour Heights FL, Cape Coral FL, Lake Suzy FL, and Solana FL.