Start with simple changes like avoiding movements that worsen your symptoms. Splinting your finger can also help. An over-the-counter painkiller like ibuprofen may reduce pain and swelling.
When to Consider Injections
If your finger is still locking after trying conservative treatments for a few weeks, a doctor might suggest a steroid injection. These can reduce swelling, making movement easier. Many people find relief after just one shot.
Surgical Solutions
Surgery is an option if other treatments don't work. It's a small procedure to release the tendon, freeing up movement. Recovery is usually quick, with most people returning to normal activities soon after.
Frequently Asked Questions
Activity changes, splinting, and pain medication.
If symptoms persist after a few weeks of conservative treatment.
Yes, it's considered when other treatments fail.
Many find significant relief after one injection.
Key Takeaways
There's hope for trigger finger with various effective treatments available.
Rozental TD, Zurakowski D, Blazar PE. Trigger finger: prognostic indicators of recurrence following corticosteroid injection. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2008; 90:1665.
Baumgarten KM, Gerlach D, Boyer MI. Corticosteroid injection in diabetic patients with trigger finger. A prospective, randomized, controlled double-blinded study. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2007; 89:2604.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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