Each finger movement is controlled by the tendons that attach to the finger. Each finger tendon passes through a small “sheath” before connecting to the muscles in the forearm. If the tendon becomes inflamed, a lump/nodule may form, making it difficult for the tendon to pass through the sheath and causing pain when the finger is bent. This condition is called “trigger finger” and is characterized by one or more fingers that “lock” and are accompanied by pain when bent, making movement difficult and uncomfortable. To learn about the different methods of treating this condition, start with Step 1 below.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Using a Finger Splint
Step 1. Place the aluminum curved finger splint on the injured finger
This finger splint uses a rigid aluminum frame to keep the finger from moving during the healing process. Place the splint on the finger on the palm side with the foam part against the skin. The splint should conform to the shape of the finger.
Aluminum arch splints (or similar splints) can be purchased at most pharmacies for relatively low prices
Step 2. Bend the aluminum so that your finger is slightly bent
Gently press the splint so that it produces a slightly curved shape that is comfortable for the fingers. If it's too painful or difficult to do this with the injured finger, don't be afraid to use your other hand.
When the splint is comfortably curved, secure it to the finger with the supplied strap or metal sleeve. If not, use a medical tape
Step 3. Leave it installed for 2 weeks
The lump/nodule should begin to subside with no movement. Over time, you should experience a reduction in pain and inflammation and a return to full range of finger movement.
You may want to remove the splint to shower and clean yourself up. However, while doing so, try not to bend your fingers or do anything else that could make your condition worse
Step 4. Protect the finger
With rest, most cases of trigger finger will go away on their own. However, this requires patience and care to ensure that the finger is not disturbed while still wearing the splint. Avoid strenuous physical activities that require the use of your hands, especially sports such as basketball, American football, and baseball where you may have to catch fast-moving objects. If possible, also avoid using a sprained finger to lift heavy objects or support your body weight.
Step 5. Remove the splint and test finger movement
After a few weeks, remove the splint and try bending your finger. You should be able to move your finger with less pain and difficulty. If you're feeling better but still experiencing some pain, you may want to wear the splint a little longer or see your doctor for other options. If your condition doesn't seem to be improving or is getting worse, you should see a doctor.
Method 2 of 2: Medically Treating Trigger Finger
Step 1. Use over-the-counter NSAIDs
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are common drugs that are easily available and can be purchased without a prescription. These medications, including the well-known painkillers ibuprofen and naproxen sodium, relieve minor pain and also reduce inflammation and swelling. For inflammatory conditions such as trigger finger, NSAIDs are the perfect "first line of defense," providing immediate relief from pain and reducing bothersome symptoms.
However, NSAIDs are relatively mild drugs, and will not help very severe cases of trigger finger. Just increasing the dose of NSAIDs alone is not recommended, because an overdose of NSAIDs can damage the liver and kidneys. If trigger finger condition persists, do not rely on this treatment as a permanent treatment
Step 2. Get a cortisone injection
Cortisone is a naturally occurring hormone released by the body, which belongs to a group of molecules called steroids (note: this is not the same as the steroids sometimes used illegally by athletes). Cortisone contains strong anti-inflammatory ingredients, making it useful for treating trigger finger and other inflammatory disorders. Talk to your doctor about cortisone injection if trigger finger doesn't improve with rest and over-the-counter medications.
- Cortisone is given as an injection directly into the injured area - in this case, the tendon sheath. While this can be done at your doctor's office in just a few minutes, you may need to return for a second injection if the first provides only half relief.
- Finally, cortisone injection is not effective for people who have certain medical conditions (such as diabetes).
Step 3. Consider surgery for very severe cases
If trigger finger persists after long rest, NSAID treatment, and multiple cortisone injections, surgery may be necessary. The surgical procedure that repairs trigger finger involves cutting the tendon sheath. As it heals, the sheath will become looser and more able to accommodate the lump/nodule on the tendon.
- This surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis - in other words, you don't need to stay in the hospital.
- Usually local anesthesia, not general anesthesia, is used for this surgery. That means your hands will be numbed so it won't hurt, but you'll still be awake.
