Trigger finger is a condition where one of your fingers becomes locked in a bent-inward position. This happens because inflammation has narrowed the space within the sheath that surrounds the tendon of your affected finger.
Here at Arizona Center for Hand to Shoulder Surgery, our experienced teams in Phoenix and Mesa, Arizona, are ready to help you find solutions to trigger finger and other orthopedic conditions in the hand, arm, and shoulders.
Read on to learn what makes women more susceptible to trigger finger.
What trigger finger is
The causes of trigger finger are predominantly caused by work or hobbies that involve repetitive gripping actions. There is certainly a growing concern about trigger finger, as it’s quickly catching up to the more widely recognized Carpal Tunnel Syndrome as the most common form of repetitive strain injury. These are injuries caused by repetitive motion.
In addition to having a finger locked in a bent position, you may also experience other symptoms like:
- Stiffness in your fingers, especially right after you wake up
- Popping or clicking when moving your finger
- Tenderness or pain in your finger
- A bump or nodule at the base of your finger
Additionally, your affected finger may either remain frozen, meaning you’re unable to straighten it at all, or it may catch or lock in this bent position, then suddenly pop back into a straight form.
Why women are more at risk for trigger finger
While trigger finger can happen to anyone, regardless of their demographics, it’s more likely to occur in women. In fact, studies show that the condition appears up to 6 times more frequently in women than in men.
While the exact reasons for this are unknown, this is likely due to the fact that women’s occupations and daily activities often involve constant gripping or repetitive local trauma.
Though the numbers point to the disease affecting women more, scientists haven’t found the precise reason for this. Still, statistically speaking, it’s important for women to be more proactive about seeking treatment upon noticing symptoms of trigger finger.
How we treat trigger finger
Here at Arizona Center for Hand and Shoulder Surgery, we’re proud to provide you with personalized care and the latest technology in orthopedic treatments. Depending on the extent of your condition, our surgeons formulate a unique plan to treat your case of trigger finger, so that you can get back to your normal activities.
Some treatments that we use to treat trigger finger, include:
- Splinting your finger
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Stretches and therapeutic exercises for your affected finger
- Getting rest and avoiding strenuous activities involving affected finger
In more severe cases, we turn to injections that ease inflammation and restore your full range of motion or surgery to treat the problem.
If you’ve noticed any of the symptoms listed here or find that your finger is locked in a bent position, get help right away by calling our Phoenix or Mesa, Arizona, office. Or schedule an appointment right on our website today.
