Trigger Finger

Trigger finger refers to a condition where the finger "catches" as it is flexed or extended. This happens when the flexor tendon running along the underside of the finger has become swollen and has difficulty passing through the band that runs across it. In severe cases, the finger may remain trapped in a flexed or extended position until treated.

After the initial evaluation, Dr. Cummins may inject a dose of cortisone into the flexor tendon sheath. This will initially provide relief from the symptoms and help confirm the diagnosis. If symptoms return within the next few weeks, surgery may be considered as a more effective and permanent solution. The outpatient procedure to treat trigger finger takes less than one hour. A small bandage has to be worn for one week after the operation. The stitches are removed after two weeks.

Radiographs (x-rays) are helpful to rule out other causes of finger or thumb pain. If you have developed one trigger finger, it is likely that you will develop triggering in one or more of your other fingers in the future.