Trigger finger
The flexor tendons of the fingers are guided closely along the bone in the metacarpal and finger bone area by so-called annular ligaments so that they can perform their function as effectively as possible.
In the area of the metacarpal bone on the palm of the hand (flexor side), an inflammation and thickening of the tendon sheath and tendon (tendovaginitis) occurs. As a result, the tunnel formed by the first annular ligament (A1 annular ligament) becomes too small for the thickened tendon: the tendon gets stuck on the annular ligament (tendovaginitis stenosans). If the tendon does slip, it does so abruptly, causing the finger to snap.
The exact causes of the disease are not yet known. Possible causes include gout, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, hormonal changes or mechanical overload.
Initially, the patient usually feels pain and tenderness in the palm of the hand as a sign of inflammation (tendovaginitis). Occasionally the pain radiates into the first finger joint and sometimes a lump can be felt in the metacarpal head area. Finally, the typical snapping occurs, which mainly occurs when the finger is extended from a bent position. Sometimes the finger can only be stretched with the help of the other hand and this release is often painful. The ring finger and thumb are most frequently affected, but the disease can occur on all fingers and on both sides.
Initially, anti-inflammatory painkillers and immobilization of the metacarpophalangeal joint can be used in an attempt to heal the condition. If this is not sufficient, local cortisone infiltration can be tried. If these measures are ineffective, surgical treatment may be considered.