Trigger finger is a condition where one of the fingers is stuck in a bent position. Trigger finger develops when inflammation makes the space narrow within the sheath that surrounds the tendon in the affected finger. In severe cases, the finger is locked in a bent position. An individual who performs monotonous gripping movements faces a high risk of ending up with trigger finger and it is usually common among women suffering from diabetes.
Symptoms of trigger finger
- A popping or clicking sensation can be heard when moving the finger
- The finger becomes stiff especially in the morning
- Soreness or a nodule that develops beneath the finger.
- Finger in a flexed position which could not be straightened.
- Finger fixed in a bent position which suddenly pops straight
If the affected finger is warm and becomes inflamed, seek medical help immediately
Factors that increases the risk of developing trigger finger include jobs and hobbies that require repetitive use of the hand and prolonged gripping, suffering from health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and women are at higher risk.
- Rest the affected finger. Avoid strenuous physical activities that requires the hands especially playing sports such as basketball, football and baseball where there is a need to catch a fast moving object.
- Place the affected finger in an aluminum flexion finger splint. It has an aluminum frame that keeps the finger in place as it heals. Avoid using the splinted finger when lifting heavy objects or supporting the body weight.
- Soak the affected hand in warm water every morning at least 2 times every day to lessen the pain.
- Perform passive stretching of the fingers and hands. Hold the affected finger with the other hand and gently stretch it up towards the ceiling to prevent the development of adhesions and for proper flow of blood in the area.
- Apply an ice pack on the affected area from time to time to lessen the inflammation and swelling.
- Deep massage the muscles of the forearm to lessen the symptoms of trigger finger.
- Consume foods rich in vitamin B6 or take vitamin B6 capsules at least one capsule every day.
- Massage the affected finger using olive or coconut oil. Slighly warm the oil before applying on the area. Massage the area in an inward out direction.
- Wear finger splints at night when sleeping to prevent folding the finger unconsciously as well as other unnecessary movements.
- Apply hot and cold alternately on the affected finger. Prepare 2 pieces of cloths – one filled with ice cubes and the other soaked in hot water. Apply the cold compress on the area for a few seconds then follow it with the warm compress. Perform this process several times until the pain is reduced.