TRIGGER FINGER (TENDOSYNOVITIS)
Trigger finger is also known as tenosynovitis which means inflammation of the tendon. A tendon is a flexible elastic cord of collagen tissue attached to a muscle or bone. The word “trigger” denotes popping back of the finger suddenly, similar to the releasing of a trigger in a gun. This mechanism is similar to the working of a pulley.
It happens due to disparity and inflammation in the tendons at the base of the fingers and thumb. In this condition, only one finger gets affected but it can also involve more than one finger. It mostly affects the thumb, index finger, middle or ring finger.
Incidence: It is estimated that roughly 2% of the general population suffers from this condition. It is one of the common causes of hand pain in adults. Trigger finger is more common among women than men in the fifth or sixth decade of their life.
Causes:
This condition is seen where the work involves repeated strong catching movements like gripping onto some object, however, the exact cause is still unknown. It is also associated with certain underlying medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, diabetes, carpal tunnel syndrome and may occur as a consequence off hand surgery.
Symptoms:
- The patient may experience some discomfort at the base of the thumb or affected finger
- Restriction in finger movements
- Tenderness on pressure
- Lump or swelling in the affected area
- Painful finger movements
- Catching, popping feeling
- Symptoms are mostly aggravated at night, morning or while catching an object firmly.
Diagnosis:
Trigger finger is often diagnosed clinically by a good physical examination and through case history.
Treatment:
Conventional treatment:
The conventional or allopathic treatment usually calls for painkillers, anti-inflammatory medicines and local steroid injections which are temporarily effective and helps giving a quick symptomatic relief. In some severe cases, surgery may be indicated. Splinting of the affected finger at night is also advised to get relief from swelling and pain.
Homeopathic treatment:
Homeopathy is strongly recommended for the treatment of trigger finger. There is a wide scope of homeopathy in the initial stages of the trigger finger. Early diagnosis and prompt homeopathic treatment along with certain hand exercises help in providing a significant relief. There are certain homeopathic medicines which help in relieving the stiffness, inflammation of the underlying tendon, thereby reducing pain and easing out finger movements. Surgery can be postponed if the patient responds well to the homeopathic treatment. Homeopathy may also be indicated in cases who have not responded to surgery. Some cases may start responding immediately after few weeks of starting the treatment but some in chronic cases, the treatment may be advised for a longer time.