If the tendons are overloaded, you can get snap finger. Everyday movements are then only possible with pain. Here you can find out what causes a trigger finger and what treatment options are available.
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What is a snap finger?
Snap finger is a dysfunction most commonly due to tendonitis in the flexor tendons of the hand. Due to the nodular thickening, the tendon can no longer move freely. As a result, bending and stretching the affected finger is not possible properly. Snap finger is also known as “trigger finger”, trigger finger and annular ligament stenosis . The affected finger often remains in the bent position. The finger can only be stretched again with effort or with the help of the others. This can cause a visible snapping, which can be painful.
Snap finger can be noticed at the beginning by a stiffness of the affected finger, which mainly occurs in the morning. In the advanced stage of the disease, the snap finger occurs more frequently or more regularly – usually when the affected finger needs to be stretched. The finger hurts when moving and feels swollen. In many cases, a small knot can be felt above the metacarpophalangeal joint at the transition to the hand.
Causes of trigger finger
The inflammation can be caused by overexertion, but also by diabetes mellitus, wear and tear, diseases such as gout and rheumatism or genetic predisposition. Diabetics and women, who can get a trigger finger about six times more often than men, have an increased risk of getting a trigger finger.
Treatment of a trigger finger
Anti-inflammatory drugs such as ointments can be applied to treat tendonitis. Taking care of your fingers and regular cooling also promise relief. If the symptoms are more severe, treatment with cortisone can be considered, which can reduce swelling in the tissue and relieve inflammatory stimuli. The cortisone can either be prescribed as an ointment or injected directly by the doctor. In severe cases of snap fingers, surgery is necessary. This is where the annular ligament is split, allowing the flexor tendon to move and stretch freely again.
