Trigger Finger Treatment in Louisville, KY

Close-up of a woman's hands with trigger finger

Trigger finger is a painful condition that causes one finger to “catch” during movement and then get locked in a bent position as if it were squeezing the trigger of a gun. The affected finger must then be manually straightened with the other hand. Also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, trigger finger occurs when a tendon sheath in a finger becomes irritated and inflamed.

Normally, a tendon glides smoothly within its sheath, but inflammation can narrow the space around the tendon and interfere with its movement. Inflammation around a finger tendon sheath can result from arthritis, diabetes, gout, or wear and tear from repetitive finger motions, such as those involved in gardening or playing a musical instrument.

What Are the Symptoms of Trigger Finger?

The affected finger may feel stiff and tender, and a snapping or popping sensation may be felt during movement. Typically, the discomfort will worsen with rest and improve with physical activity. As trigger finger advances, a visible bump may form on the tendon in the palm.

Trigger finger usually produces distinctive symptoms, but a hand specialist at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic in Louisville, Kentucky, can diagnose the condition after examining the affected finger and hand. Specifically, the physician will check for tender areas, evaluate the affected finger’s motion, and look for evidence of locking.

How Is Trigger Finger Treated?

Trigger finger treatment can vary based on the severity of the symptoms. A mild case may resolve on its own after a period of rest. During the healing process, it is important to avoid activities that “trigger” the symptoms, such as gripping and grasping objects with the affected hand. A finger splint can restrict movement and allow the inflammation to subside, and gentle exercises can improve the flexibility of the stiff finger.

To address moderate trigger finger symptoms, a physician may suggest a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) to relieve pain and inflammation, or a steroid injection administered near or into the inflamed tendon sheath to reduce swelling. In a severe case, surgery may be considered to enlarge the tendon tunnel so that the tendon can more easily glide through it.

Consult With a Hand Specialist in Louisville

If you’d like to explore your trigger finger treatment options with a hand specialist at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic, contact us today to schedule an appointment at our location in Louisville KY.

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I was able to get a office visit on short notice. It seemed to be a very busy day. Rebecca took the time to listen to all of my issues and discuss a plan for additional treatment. I have always been impressed with her knowledge and bed side manner.
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Dr Goodin has replaced both of my knees this year with excellent results. He and Carly listen to my concerns, act promptly and work hard to make this journey the best it can be. Carly and Dr Goodin both have GREAT bedside manner and I feel I am in expert care with them.
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Dr. Richardson is the best! He did shoulder decompression surgery for me many moons ago and has continued to treat me for other shoulder, arm, and back issues since. I would recommend him to anyone!
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The New Albany office of Louisville Orthopedic is full of terrific people who know what excellent customer service is about! From the front desk to the lab, they are great. Doctor Lewis is my surgeon and I love him. He’s good at what he does and he’s compassionate. I would recommend him to anyone.
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This was my first time at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic and I saw Melissa Parshall PA-C. I was very impressed with how fast I got in, had x-rays, and met with her. She was very thorough and extremely friendly. So glad A friend told me to come see you guys! Thank you!
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Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic

4130 Dutchman's Lane,
Suite 300,Louisville 40207
(502) 897-1794

Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic

1425 State St.,
,New Albany 47150
(812) 920-0408

Locations
*MAIN LOCATION
Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic
4130 Dutchman's Lane
Suite 300
Louisville, KY 40207

Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic
1425 State St.
New Albany, IN 47150