Trigger Finger Release Surgery: What Patients in North Georgia Need to Know
Introduction
Trigger finger is a common hand condition that can interfere with everyday tasks such as gripping, typing, or buttoning clothes. Medically known as stenosing tenosynovitis, it occurs when a finger or thumb gets stuck in a bent position and then suddenly straightens with a snap—similar to pulling and releasing a trigger. For many patients, this problem starts gradually but worsens over time, making it painful to move the affected finger.
When conservative treatments like splints, stretching exercises, or corticosteroid injections fail, trigger finger release surgery is often recommended. This surgical treatment provides long-term relief by allowing the tendon to glide freely again.
What Causes Trigger Finger?
Your fingers bend and straighten with the help of flexor tendons, which slide through a protective sheath lined by tissue called the tenosynovium. Inflammation of this lining narrows the passageway, preventing the tendon from moving smoothly. As a result, the finger or thumb may lock in a flexed position and then suddenly snap straight.
Several factors can increase your risk to develop trigger finger, including:
- Repetitive gripping or pinching activities
- Certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes
- A history of hand injuries or tendon irritation
- Age over 40, with women affected more often than men
Common Symptoms of Trigger Finger
The symptoms of trigger finger can vary from mild stiffness to severe locking. Patients often report:
- Finger stiffness, especially in the morning
- Clicking, popping, or a catching sensation when moving the finger
- Pain or tenderness at the base of the palm side of the affected finger
- A tender lump or nodule over the A1 pulley (the thick band of tissue that holds the tendon in place)
- In severe cases, the finger becomes locked and cannot fully straighten
Although any finger can be involved, the ring finger and trigger thumb are most commonly affected.
Diagnosis and When to Seek Treatment
A physical exam performed by an orthopedic surgeon or hand specialist usually confirms the diagnosis. Your healthcare provider may feel for a tender lump at the base of the affected digit and test whether the tendon glides freely. In most cases, imaging such as X-rays is not needed.
If you notice trigger finger symptoms that interfere with daily life—such as difficulty gripping objects, pain that disrupts sleep, or a finger that gets stuck in a bent position—you should seek care from a hand specialist.
Non-Surgical Treatments
In mild cases, symptoms often improve with simple measures such as:
- Resting the affected finger or thumb and avoiding repetitive gripping
- Wearing a splint to keep the finger straight, especially at night
- Taking anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling
- Steroid injections into the tendon sheath to relieve pain and improve motion
- Hand therapy with stretching exercises guided by a certified hand therapist
Many patients improve after the first injection, though some require a second injection. If symptoms worsen or persist despite other treatments, surgery may be the best option.
Surgical Treatment: Trigger Finger Release
When non-surgical treatment fails, trigger finger release surgery can permanently resolve the condition. The goal of surgery is to release the A1 pulley so the tendon can move without restriction.
Open Trigger Finger Release Surgery
This is the most common approach and is performed as an outpatient procedure:
- The surgeon makes a small incision in the palm or pad of the thumb.
- The tendon sheath is carefully cut to relieve pressure.
- The surgeon checks that the tendon can glide freely before closing the incision.
- Stitches are placed, and a light dressing is applied.
Percutaneous Trigger Finger Release Surgery
In this minimally invasive option:
- A needle is inserted through the skin to release the tight tendon sheath.
- The procedure is done under local anesthesia, often in the office.
- No incision or sutures are required, which can speed recovery.
Your surgeon will recommend the best procedure depending on the affected digit, your overall health, and the severity of your condition.
Recovery and Postoperative Care
Most patients notice immediate improvement in finger motion once the anesthesia wears off. After surgery, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions:
- Keep the incision clean and dry for the first few days.
- Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Begin gentle motion exercises early to prevent stiffness.
- Return to everyday tasks such as writing and typing within a few days.
- Return to sports or heavy work usually within a few weeks, depending on healing.
A hand therapist may be recommended if stiffness lingers. Most patients heal quickly and do not require further procedures.
Risks and Complications
Trigger finger release is a safe and effective procedure, but as with any surgery, there are risks. Possible complications include:
- Infection
- Pain or stiffness in the operated finger
- Scarring at the incision site
- Nerve irritation or numbness
- Incomplete release requiring revision surgery
Fortunately, most patients achieve excellent results and regain full hand function.
Other Conditions Related to Trigger Finger
Trigger finger may occur alongside other hand and wrist conditions, such as:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Dupuytren’s contracture
- Tendonitis from repetitive use
- Thumb arthritis or other joint problems
An experienced orthopedic hand surgeon can evaluate and treat these conditions as part of a comprehensive care plan.
Why Choose Dr. Thomas Neustein for Trigger Finger Release?
At Specialty Orthopaedics, Dr. Thomas Neustein specializes in upper extremity surgery, including trigger finger release. Patients throughout Dawsonville, Braselton, Duluth, and North Georgia trust his expertise for precise surgical care and personalized recovery plans. Whether you need steroid injections, hand therapy, or surgical treatment, Dr. Neustein and his team provide comprehensive options to help you return to pain-free activity.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you are struggling with painful or locking fingers, don’t let trigger finger interfere with your daily life. Contact Dr. Thomas Neustein’s office to discuss your treatment options and find lasting relief.
