Trigger Thumb
Trigger Thumb Causes
The disorder may be caused by highly repetitive or forceful use of the finger and thumb. Certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout or diabetes cause changes in tissues and may cause trigger finger/thumb. The condition may also be aggravated by prolonged, strenuous grasping such as when using power tools.
Trigger Thumb Definition
Trigger finger or trigger thumb is a stenosing tenosynovitis disorder where the sheath around the tendon in a thumb or finger becomes swollen, or nodules from on the tendon. Though it usually affects the thumb, more than one finger may be affected at a time including the middle finger or ring finger.
Trigger Thumb Diagnosis
Imaging such as x-rays are helpful to rule out the disorder.
Trigger Thumb Symptoms and Signs
Patients primarily complain of painful clicking of the finger of popping of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP). Some may also complain of morning stiffness of the fingers without frank triggering. Other advanced involvement may lead to locking, usually in flexion, which must be released by passive manipulation with the other hand.
Trigger Thumb Treatment
Limiting activities that may aggravate the condition is the first step to recover from the disorder. In some cases, physicians may put a splint on the affected digit to restrict movement. Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen may be taken when symptoms continue. Surgery is recommended if conservative measures are ineffective.