Diagnosing Trigger Finger is a Doctor’s Job
Diagnosing trigger finger is a doctor’s job and, you will need to see a doctor if you suspect that you have a trigger finger.
Diagnosis of trigger finger doesn’t require any elaborate testing
In a person who has trigger finger pain, one of the fingers, or even the thumb, has a tendency to be frequently stuck at an awkward bent position.
Timely intervention can help prevent greater pain and, the chances of the finger getting locked in the bent position are reduced.
Diagnosing trigger finger at the doctor’s clinic:
Your doctor is likely to carry out a physical examination of the affected finger and, ask you a few questions.
The typical questions that a doctor diagnosing trigger finger may ask include:
* symptoms you have
* duration of the symptoms
* whether symptoms are persistent or come and go
* what makes them worse or better
* any particular time of day when the symptoms are worse or better
* any repetitive tasks performed by you
* any recent injuries to your finger or hand
* whether you are a diabetic or have a family history of diabetes
Video: Diagnosing Trigger Finger
Physical examination for diagnosing trigger finger:
Elaborate tests are usually not required for diagnosing trigger finger. During the physical examination, your doctor will check your fingers and determine the areas of pain. He or she will ask you to open and close your hand several times to detect any locking of the fingers. Special attention will be payed to examining the joints of the fingers while examining the hands. If the trigger finger pain is very severe, the doctor may use an anesthetic first to numb the pain before carrying on with the physical check up.
Trigger finger treatment:
After diagnosing and establishing that you are suffering from trigger finger, your doctor will specify a treatment procedure to be followed. The treatment varies according to the severity of the symptoms.
For mild cases he or she may suggest splinting in which you may need to wear a splint for about six weeks to keep the finger in place and, to prevent bending.
Alternatively, you may be advised exercises for the finger. You will also be advised to avoid any repetitive movement involving your fingers.
Mayo Clinic – Trigger Finger Diagnosis and Treatment
If the case is serious, then the doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Ibuprofen or even a steroid injection. In very severe cases where the finger is permanently locked in a bent position, you may need surgery to correct the problem.
Apart from the above treatment procedures a few home remedies you may try out include warm water soaking of affected finger to reduce the pain. You may even massage the affected part to dull the pain.
Resting the finger would help to alleviate the pain to a great extent. Visit your doctor when you suspect you may have trigger finger for timely diagnosing trigger finger condition and get it treated before the condition becomes severe.
Remember:
Diagnosis of trigger finger doesn’t require any elaborate testing. Your doctor or health care provider makes the diagnosis based on your medical history and a physical exam. During the physical exam, your doctor will ask you to open and close your hand, checking for areas of pain, smoothness of motion and evidence of locking.
Your doctor will also feel your palm to see if there is a lump present. If the lump is associated with trigger finger, the lump will move as the finger moves because the lump is an area of swelling in part of the tendon that moves the finger.
Diagnosing Trigger Finger FAQ’s
How is trigger finger diagnosed?
Trigger finger is diagnosed by a doctor by doing a physical examination of the hand and fingers. No X-rays or lab tests are used to diagnose trigger finger
What happens if its not treated ?
The affected finger or thumb may become permanently stuck in a bent position or, less commonly, in a straightened position. This can make carrying out everyday tasks difficult.
Can trigger finger or Trigger thumb heal on its own?
Yes, but trigger finger can recur but the condition can generally correct itself after a short period. However, more severe cases may become locked in the bent position and require surgery to correct the problem.
Is trigger finger a sign of arthritis?
Certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout and diabetes are more common in people with trigger finger. Also, repeated and strong gripping may lead to the condition. However, in most cases, the cause of the trigger finger is not known.
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