Trigger Thumb

TRIGGER THUMB

Trigger thumb. A disorder known as trigger finger makes it difficult to move your thumb or fingers. They may become “frozen” in a flexed position. Your thumbs and fingers’ tendons are impacted. The term “trigger finger” refers to the position in which your fingers can become caught, giving the impression that you are attempting to pull an invisible trigger.

TRIGGER THUMB

Your thumb or afflicted fingers may become trapped flexed in toward your palm if you have trigger finger. Straightening your afflicted digits—the medical word for your fingers and thumb can be difficult or impossible. Although trigger finger can occur in any digit, it most frequently affects the ring fingers. A mismatch in diameter between the enlarged flexor tendon and its sheath at the level of the metacarpal head is the cause of trigger thumb or trigger finger. The result is an audible popping or clicking sound when trying to extend the thumb.

Signs

a popping or snapping sensation when your thumb or fingers are moved. Your afflicted fingers may feel as though they are “catching” or becoming stuck while moving. When you stretch your thumb or fingers in toward your palm, you may experience pain and stiffness.
discomfort in the palm of your hand, close to the base of your thumb or fingers. Usually, this ache gets worse while you’re holding onto something.
swelling or a sore spot in your hand’s palm.
Your thumb or fingers sticking or locking in a flexed position. To straighten up your fingers, you may need to gently push them with your other hand. The symptoms of trigger finger, particularly stiffness and locked positions, are typically worst in the morning. Generally, stiffness improves a bit when you begin to use your thumb and fingers.

Causes

Trigger finger or trigger thumb is caused by swelling in or around the tendons of your fingers or thumb.
Bands of tissue called tendon connect muscles to bones. Your thumb and fingers are flexed and straightened by the combined action of your hand muscles and tendon. These tendons are encased in a sheath, which is a tube of tissue. The tendons are held in position and protected by the sheath.
Trigger finger occurs when the tendons in your afflicted thumb or fingers swell and get irritated, making it difficult for them to pass through their sheaths. Your afflicted tendon may also develop a lump, or nodule, which makes it even harder for the tendon to pass through its sheath.

Treatment

Rest: Your tendons will have more time to recover if you take a break from your job, hobbies, or activities that caused your trigger finger.
Splinting: To keep your injured digits in place and assist them in returning to their natural posture, you may need to wear a splint.
Stretching exercises: To assist your tendons restore their flexibility, your healthcare professional may prescribe stretching exercises. Avoiding excessive use of your hands, fingers, and thumbs is the best defense against trigger finger. Learn the right stance or technique for work or sports to avoid trigger finger.
Also, to prevent damage, introduce new exercises or activities gradually.
If you’re performing a repetitive work that strains your hands, take breaks.

Summary

However, trigger finger can be treated, which is good news. You should be able to resume all of your regular interests and activities once your hand has healed, even if surgery is required. If your fingers or thumb start to hurt, become stiff, or have less range of motion, see a doctor.