What is Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger (aka tenosynovitis) happens when one of your fingers gets stuck in a bent position and may straighten with a snap, like pulling a trigger. This condition happens when the tendon sheath gets inflamed, making it difficult for the tendon to move smoothly. It can lead to pain, stiffness and a sensation go your finger being stuck or locked.
Symptoms and Causes
Trigger finger can affect any finger, including the thumb. Common symptoms include:
Stiffness in the finger, especially in the morning
A popping or clicking feeling when you move your finger
Tenderness or a bump at the base of the finger
Finger catching or locking in a bent position
In severe cases, the finger stays locked in a bent position
The exact cause is not always clear but may be due to:
Repetitive hand movements
Health conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis
Injuries or strains to the hand
Age and gender, with women over 40 more likely to get it
How Common is Trigger Finger?
While exact statistics for Singapore are unavailable, trigger finger is common worldwide. In Singapore, It affects people of all ages can get it, especially those who use their hands a lot for work or hobbies. It’s particularly seen in middle-aged and older adults, or teenagers who frequently game a lot.
Why Early Treatment is Important
Getting treatment early for trigger finger is important because:
Preventing it from getting worse: Without treatment, trigger finger can go from being an occasional problem to a constant issue, making it hard to use your hand.
Reducing Pain: Early treatment can help relieve pain and make you more comfortable.
Avoiding Further Problems: If left untreated, it can cause permanent finger damage.
Faster Recovery: The sooner you start treatment, the quicker you can get back to normal activities, and avoid more invasive treatment options like surgery.
Trigger Finger Treatment Options
There are different ways to treat trigger finger, from conservative methods to surgical approaches. Non-surgical treatments includes:
Rest: Avoiding repetitive gripping and activities that strain the affected finger.
Splinting: Wearing a splint to keep the affected finger in a neutral position and reduce tendon irritation.
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation.
Steroid Injections: Getting an injection to reduce inflammation.
If non-surgical treatments are not effective, surgery may be necessary to release the tendon.
Novahealth TCM for Holistic Trigger Finger Treatment
At Novahealth TCM, we offer traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatments together with modern sports science for holistic trigger finger treatment. Our methods have minimal pain and focus on natural healing which includes:
Acupuncture: Using fine needles to reduce pain and reduce inflammation around the joint.
Tuina: Massaging the hand and forearm to relieve stiffness and improve movement.
Herbal Medicine: Custom herbal remedies to support healing.
Soundwave Therapy (Sports Science): Using sound waves to break up inflammation so that the area can heal faster.
We combine modern medicine with traditional practices to create personalized treatment plans that work best for you.
Conclusion
Trigger finger is a common issue but can be managed with the right and timely treatment. Recognizing the symptoms and getting help early can prevent complications and improve your quality of life. If you think you have trigger finger, visit Novahealth TCM. Our experienced physicians are here to help you get better and keep your hands healthy.
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