Trigger Finger

Question 1

What is another name for trigger finger?

Answer 1

Stenosing tenosynovitis

Question 2

What is the pathophysiology of trigger finger?

Answer 2

Flexor tendons of the fingers have to pass through several sheaths along their insertions

There is either a thickening of the sheath of the tendon

This stops the tendon from smoothly moving through the sheath when the finger is flexed or extended

Question 3

What is the most commonly affected part of the sheath?

Answer 3

First annular pulley (A1) at the MCP joint

Question 4

What causes the painful pop in trigger finger?

Answer 4

If a nodule prevents smooth movement of the tendon when the tendon finally gets through the annular pulley this causes a pop

Question 5

What are the risk factors of trigger finger?

Answer 5

40s or 50s

Women

DMT1, also type 2

Question 6

What is the typical presentation of trigger finger?

Answer 6

Painful and tender finger

Does not move smoothly

Popping or clicking sound

Gets stuck in flexed position

Question 7

When are symptoms worse with trigger finger?

Answer 7

In the morning, improves during the day

Question 8

How is trigger finger diagnosed?

Answer 8

Clinical diagnosis based on history and examination findings

Question 9

How is trigger finger managed?

Answer 9

Rest and analgesia (small number resolve spontaneously)

Splinting

Steroid injections

Surgery to release the pulley