Trigger Finger

1. What is trigger finger/ jerk finger?

1. It is a phenomenon in which the movement of a finger is halted momentarily in flexion or extension and then continues with a jerk. It is also called stenosing tenosynovitis.

2. What happens when the sheath that surrounds the tendon narrows?

2. There is a sheath that surround the tendon in each finger. When the sheath narrow, or tendon has swollen, results in diffulty flexing or extending the finger, that is trigger finger. It can be caused by overuse, trauma or due to systematic diseases.

3. When does trigger finger happen?

3. Trigger finger happens when tendons in the finger or thumb become inflamed. Together, the tendons and muscles in the hands and arms bend and straighthen the fingers and thumbs.

4. Why does a tendon usually glide easily through the sheath?

4. A tendon usually glides easily through the sheath because of a lubricating membrane surrounding the joint called synovium. Sometimes a tendon may become inflamed and swollen. When this happens, bending the finger or thumb can pull the inflamed tendon through a narrowed tendon sheath making it snap or pop.

5. What can trigger finger be caused by?

5. It can be caused by a repeated movement or forceful use of the finger or thumb.

6. Which diseases can cause trigger finger?

6. Rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and diabetes can cause trigger finger.

7. What is the age/sex distribution?

7. Women, 40-60.

8. What are symptoms of trigger finger?

8. Symptoms are pain and swelling, characterized by catching, snapping or locking of the involved finger flexor tendon, associated with dysfunction and pain.

9. What are the main points for treatment?

9. Treatment is ashi point, PC 7, GB 34, LV 3, Baxie, moxibustion.