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Trigger Finger Syndrome Treatment in Central, Kentucky

Trigger finger occurs when the flexor tendon in the finger becomes irritated or inflamed, making it difficult for the tendon to glide smoothly through its protective sheath. Over time, this irritation causes swelling and thickening of both the tendon and the pulley (the fibrous tunnel it moves through). As the space within the sheath narrows, the tendon can catch or snag as you try to bend or straighten the finger.

This results in the hallmark symptoms of painful clicking, popping, or locking. Many people notice stiffness in the morning, tenderness at the base of the affected finger or thumb, or a lump (nodule) that moves with the tendon. In more advanced cases, the finger can become stuck in a bent position and may need to be manually straightened. Trigger finger is often associated with repetitive gripping, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or prolonged hand strain, but it can occur in anyone.

BGO Trigger Finger Syndrome Treatment

What Causes Trigger Finger Syndrome and Why Early Care Matters

Trigger finger syndrome occurs when the flexor tendon in your finger becomes irritated or inflamed, usually from repetitive gripping, forceful hand use, or underlying conditions that affect tendon health—such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid disorders. This irritation leads to swelling and thickening of the tendon or the surrounding pulley, narrowing the space where the tendon should glide smoothly. As a result, the tendon catches during movement, causing the characteristic clicking, locking, or stiffness.

Why Early Care Matters:
Early treatment can stop trigger finger from progressing to more painful or persistent locking. Conservative options—like rest, splinting, anti-inflammatories, or injections—work best in the early stages when swelling is easier to reduce. Delaying care allows stiffness to worsen and may increase the need for surgery. Acting early helps preserve hand strength, motion, and everyday function.

    Symptoms You May Be Experiencing

    If you’re wondering whether your finger discomfort could be trigger finger, here are common signs to watch for:

    • Finger stiffness, especially in the morning
    • A popping, clicking, or catching sensation when bending or straightening the finger
    • Pain or tenderness at the base of the affected finger or thumb
    • Finger locking in a bent position that may suddenly straighten
    • A noticeable bump or nodule at the base of the finger
    • Reduced range of motion in the affected finger
BGO Trigger Finger Treatment
Bluegrass Orthopaedics

Why Choose Bluegrass Orthopaedics for Trigger Finger Syndrome Treatment

  • Specialty hand and wrist expertise. Bluegrass Orthopaedics has a dedicated “Hand & Wrist” team of surgeons and therapists experienced in tendon injuries, nerve issues, and conditions like trigger finger.
  • Comprehensive care under one roof. From diagnosis to non-surgical treatment (splints, therapy, injections) and — when needed — minimally invasive surgery and post-op hand therapy. This makes it easier to get continuous care without juggling multiple providers.
  • Personalized treatment plans. Our team tailors care depending on severity — for some, splinting, therapy or injections may work; for others, surgery may be advised. This ensures you’re not pushed into surgery if milder treatments might suffice.
BGO Trigger Finger Treatment

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

We often begin with conservative measures to relieve symptoms and restore function. Non-surgical treatment for trigger finger includes activity modification, finger splinting, anti-inflammatory medications, ice or warm soaks, gentle stretching exercises, and corticosteroid injections. Ergonomic adjustments to reduce hand strain can also help relieve symptoms.

Surgical Treatment Options & Recovery

Surgical treatment for trigger finger typically involves releasing the tight A1 pulley so the tendon can glide smoothly again. The two most common options are open release, which uses a small incision in the palm, and percutaneous release, which uses a needle or small blade through the skin with no formal incision. Both procedures have very high success rates, but percutaneous release generally offers faster recovery, less scarring, and quicker return to daily activities, while open release provides a direct view of the tendon and may be preferred for more complex cases. Most patients can move their finger soon after surgery and resume light tasks within a few days, though full recovery—especially for heavy use—may take several weeks. Swelling, scar sensitivity, or temporary stiffness are possible during healing, but complications are uncommon.

How We Decide What’s Right for You

At Bluegrass Orthopaedics, treatment is a collaborative process:

  • Evaluation: We’ll review your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle demands. We may perform a physical exam and nerve testing.
  • Discussion of Options: We’ll walk through non-surgical vs. surgical approaches, including which type of surgery may make sense for you, based on your goals, job, and recovery expectations.
  • Customized Plan: If surgery is recommended, we’ll help you choose the method that fits your needs — and explain clearly what to expect before, during, and after.
  • Support for Recovery: You’ll receive a post-treatment plan, including wound care, when it’s safe to use your hand, and therapy if needed.

FAQs

What causes trigger finger?

Repetitive gripping or tendon inflammation.

Is an injection effective?

Yes—many patients improve after a single injection.

Does surgery fix the problem?

Surgery reliably resolves trigger finger

How long is downtime?

Most return to light use within days.

Ready to take the next steps towards lasting relief?

If you’re experiencing persistent tingling, numbness, or weakness in your hand — don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with our hand and wrist specialists to get a clear diagnosis and explore your treatment options. Whether you want to try conservative care first or you’re ready to talk about surgery, we’re here to help you find relief and restore your hand function.

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