This comprehensive guide covers the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for stenosing tenosynovitis, commonly known as trigger finger. It explains how the condition affects finger movement, highlights risk factors, and discusses both non-surgical and surgical management strategies to restore function and reduce discomfort.

Ultimate Guide to Stenosing Tenosynovitis: Causes, Signs, and Management Strategies

Stenosing tenosynovitis, commonly known as trigger finger, is a condition where fingers become stuck in a bent position, leading to discomfort and stiffness during movement. It often affects those performing repetitive gripping motions, such as workers, artisans, or farmers. Women and individuals with diabetes face increased risk. When it involves the thumb, it's referred to as trigger thumb. Common signs include a tender bump at the finger's base and locking sensations, worsened after inactivity or upon waking.

Signs and Symptoms

Patients typically observe a lump near the palm side of the affected finger, along with trouble fully straightening or bending it. Clicking sounds and locking sensations are frequent, especially after rest. In severe cases, the finger may remain locked or require assistance to straighten.

Management options depend on the severity and include:

Medical Interventions: Prescription medications like anti-inflammatory drugs.

Splint Usage: Wearing a supportive device to keep the finger extended, especially overnight, reducing locking and pain.

Stretching Exercises: Gentle movements for fingers and wrists, like molding clay, to enhance flexibility.

Activity Modification: Limiting activities that strain the finger; using padded gloves if necessary.

Home Treatments: Soaking hands in warm water with essential oils to promote blood flow and relieve discomfort.

Massage Therapy: Light massage of fingers and hands may help, with medical advice prior to starting.

Advanced cases might need procedures such as:

Percutaneous Release: Using a fine needle to break up constricted tissue without surgery, an affordable alternative.

Surgical Release: A minor incision to cut the tight tissue, restoring normal tendon movement.

Post-procedure physical therapy can aid recovery.

Understanding stenosing tenosynovitis involves recognizing that flexor tendons enable finger movement through protective sheaths. When these tendons swell or inflame, they can snag or pop, causing locking. Risk factors include rheumatoid arthritis, gout, diabetes, age (40-60), female gender, and repetitive work tasks.