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Dr. Krebiehl is a native to Michigan. She graduated with honors from Wayne State University in 2006. She continued on to medical school at…
What is Trigger Finger/Thumb?
Stenosing tenosynovitis is most commonly known as “trigger finger” or “trigger thumb”. With the help of pulleys, tendons glide back and forth easily allowing you to bend and straighten your finger. When the pulleys become too thick, the tendon can no longer glide easily through, resulting in your finger or thumb being stuck in a bent position (AKA trigger finger). Individuals with occupations or hobbies that involve repetitive hand use or gripping may have an increased risk of developing this condition.
Common symptoms of trigger finger include:
- A popping sensation when you move your finger
- Stiffness in your finger, especially in the morning
- A bump or tenderness in the palm at the base of the affected finger
- A finger that is stuck in a bent position and cannot straighten
Who can Benefit from Treatment?
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms in any of your fingers or thumb, you can give our office a call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Krebiehl, our highly trained hand and plastic surgeon. However, be sure to seek medical care right away if your finger joint is inflamed or hot, as this can be a sign of infection.
Treatment Options
There are a variety of different treatment options available to treat trigger finger/thumb, depending on the severity of your condition. These options include:
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen can help to relieve pain associated with trigger finger or thumb.
Rest: Your doctor may recommend that you take a break from activities that require repeated grasping or gripping or the use of hand-held machinery until your symptoms begin to improve.
Splinting: Wearing a splint at night for up to six weeks can help to keep the affected finger in an extended position, which will help to rest the tendon.
Stretching exercises: Gentle stretching exercises can help to maintain mobility in your affected finger.
Steroid injections: In some cases, a steroid injection into the tendon sheath may reduce inflammation.
Surgery: Trigger finger surgery involves cutting the constricted section of the tendon sheath, correcting this condition.
Trigger Finger/Thumb Recovery
Overall, there are many factors that may impact when you will see an improvement in your symptoms. However, if you have surgery, it will probably take around six weeks for your finger to completely heal. How soon you can return to work will depend on the nature of your job. Dr. Krebiehl will provide you with specific recovery instructions to help ensure that your finger heals properly, and your symptoms are resolved.
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Patient's Story
“I love Dr. Renucci!! His beside manner is amazing. I felt so comfortable and the staff really takes great care of you. They treat you like a loved one and genuinely want you to have a great experience and be happy with the results. Definitely a great experience. I would absolutely do it again.”
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State of the art Surgical Facility
Our operating facility is conveniently located on the sixth floor of the Exhibitor’s Building adjacent to the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our surgical facility is accredited by the AAAHC, or the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc. This association is committed to improving quality care provided to patients by reviewing standards, performance, and safety of our facility.
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If you are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms associated with trigger finger or thumb, do not hesitate to contact Plastic Surgery Associates today. Our team will work with you to create an individualized treatment plan to help you return to your regular activities without discomfort.
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