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What Happens If You Ignore Trigger Finger? Risks and Long-Term Effects

Trigger finger, medically known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition that can significantly impact your hand’s functionality and quality of life. Symptoms such as hand pain, finger stiffness, and the characteristic locking of the affected finger might seem manageable initially, but ignoring this condition can lead to severe long-term complications.

This blog will delve into the risks of leaving trigger finger untreated, the long-term effects it may have, and the treatment options for trigger finger in Guildford and Surrey, including orthopaedic care in the area to prevent irreversible damage.

Man with Trigger Finger

What Is Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger is a condition caused by inflammation or narrowing of the tendon sheath in the fingers or thumb, leading to difficulty in flexing or extending the affected digit. The name “trigger finger” comes from the snapping or locking sensation experienced when trying to move the finger. The condition often starts mildly but can escalate if left untreated, affecting your daily activities and quality of life.

Trigger finger can affect one or more fingers and is commonly observed in people whose work or hobbies involve repetitive gripping motions. It’s important to recognise the early signs to prevent progression to a more debilitating state.

For individuals with physically demanding occupations or hobbies, the strain placed on the tendons over time can lead to a gradual worsening of symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid advanced complications and ensure a swift recovery.

Common Symptoms

  • Hand pain and finger stiffness, especially in the morning, making it hard to move the digit.
  • Clicking or popping sensation when moving the finger, which can worsen with repeated motion.
  • Finger locking in a bent or straight position, requiring manual assistance to release.
  • Tenderness at the base of the affected finger or thumb, often accompanied by a small lump or nodule.

These symptoms can vary in intensity and frequency, but early intervention is crucial to avoid long-term damage. Without timely care, these symptoms may progress, resulting in restricted hand functionality and increased discomfort.

What Causes Trigger Finger?

Common Causes

Trigger finger arises from a combination of physical strain, medical conditions, and sometimes unexplained factors. Common causes include:

  • Repetitive Hand Movements: Tasks involving frequent gripping, such as gardening, typing, or using tools, place stress on the tendons, leading to irritation and inflammation. Over time, this repetitive motion creates friction in the tendon sheath, causing swelling.
  • Arthritis in Hands: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can cause swelling and changes in joint structures, contributing to trigger finger. These conditions are particularly common in older adults, increasing their susceptibility to this disorder.
  • Diabetes: People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing trigger finger, possibly due to changes in connective tissue and blood flow. Studies have shown that prolonged high blood sugar levels can contribute to tendon stiffness and inflammation.
  • Trauma: Direct injury to the hand or fingers can cause scar tissue formation, restricting tendon movement and triggering symptoms. Even minor injuries can lead to complications if the tendon sheath becomes inflamed.

Understanding the underlying cause of trigger finger can guide appropriate treatment and preventative strategies. For more information on arthritis-related hand conditions, visit our Arthritis in Hands Treatment.

What Happens If Trigger Finger Is Left Untreated?

Risks of Ignoring Trigger Finger

Ignoring the symptoms of trigger finger can have serious consequences, leading to a progression of the condition and worsening of symptoms. The risks include:

  • Permanent Finger Deformity: Without treatment, the affected finger may become permanently stuck in a bent position, a condition known as flexion contracture. This limits functionality and makes daily tasks challenging. Such deformities, including boutonnière deformity, can also result in psychological distress, as individuals struggle with the visible and functional changes.
  • Tendon Damage: Chronic irritation and inflammation of the tendon can cause lasting damage, further restricting movement and causing pain. Over time, this damage may extend to neighbouring tendons, compounding the issue.
  • Loss of Function: Over time, trigger finger can interfere with hand coordination, making it difficult to perform tasks such as writing, gripping, or even eating. Loss of hand function can have a profound impact on a person’s independence, especially for those relying on fine motor skills in their work.
  • Worsened Quality of Life: Pain, stiffness, and loss of function can significantly impact day-to-day activities, reducing overall quality of life and independence. Individuals may experience frustration, depression, or anxiety as they struggle to manage everyday tasks.

The earlier you seek treatment, the greater the likelihood of avoiding these complications. Delayed treatment often results in the need for more intensive interventions, including surgery.

Close up of trigger finger

Long-Term Effects of Not Treating Trigger Finger

Severe Outcomes

When trigger finger is left untreated, the following long-term effects may occur:

  1. Permanent Flexion Deformity: The finger may remain stuck in a bent position, rendering it unusable for many tasks. This deformity can affect the aesthetics of the hand and the overall balance of hand function. Over time, the surrounding joints may compensate, leading to additional strain and discomfort.
  2. Loss of Hand Strength and Dexterity: The affected hand may lose grip strength and precision, making simple actions such as opening jars or buttoning shirts more challenging. This loss can severely impact both personal and professional activities, particularly for those in manual labour or creative fields.
  3. Increased Pain and Discomfort: Chronic inflammation can lead to persistent and debilitating pain, which may spread to adjacent fingers or the entire hand. The constant discomfort can interfere with sleep, further diminishing overall well-being.
  4. Complex Surgical Intervention: Delaying treatment often necessitates advanced surgical procedures, which come with increased recovery times and potential complications. Recovery from such surgeries may also require prolonged physical therapy to restore function.

By addressing trigger finger promptly, you can avoid these severe outcomes and maintain your hand’s health and functionality. Early intervention also minimises the need for invasive procedures, ensuring a smoother recovery.

Effective Treatment Options for Trigger Finger

Non-Surgical Options

Non-surgical treatments are often the first line of defence against trigger finger. They include:

  1. Steroid Injections: These are highly effective in reducing inflammation and relieving symptoms for several months in many cases. Injections can provide rapid relief, allowing individuals to resume their daily activities with minimal disruption.
  2. Bracing or Splinting: Immobilising the affected finger allows the tendon to rest and heal, preventing further irritation. Splints, such as a middle finger splint or finger splint for trigger finger in the UK, are particularly effective when worn at night, as they prevent unintentional strain during sleep.
  3. Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve tendon flexibility and reduce inflammation. Therapists often use specialised techniques to restore full range of motion, including massage and heat therapy.

Surgical Options

For severe or persistent cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. The most common procedure is:

  • Trigger Finger Release Surgery: This minimally invasive surgery releases the constricted tendon sheath, allowing the tendon to glide freely. Recovery is typically swift, and many patients regain full function within weeks. Surgeons often use local anaesthesia, ensuring a quick and comfortable procedure.

Explore our Finger Deformity Treatment and Trigger Release Surgery pages for more information on these options. Seeking professional care early can reduce the need for more invasive treatments.

How to Prevent Trigger Finger and Finger Deformities

Practical Prevention Tips

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to reduce your risk of developing trigger finger:

  • Avoid Repetitive Hand Movements: Limit activities that involve prolonged gripping or repetitive motions. Using ergonomic tools can also help reduce strain.
  • Take Frequent Breaks: If your work or hobbies involve heavy hand use, pause regularly to stretch and rest your fingers. Micro-breaks can make a significant difference in tendon health.
  • Maintain Proper Hand Posture: Use ergonomic tools and ensure your hand and wrist alignment is natural during tasks. Proper alignment reduces unnecessary stress on the tendons.
  • Perform Strengthening Exercises: Incorporate hand and finger exercises into your routine to enhance flexibility and strength. Simple exercises such as squeezing a stress ball can improve tendon resilience.
  • Stretch Regularly: Gentle stretching of the fingers and hands can keep tendons and joints healthy, reducing the risk of inflammation. Incorporate hand stretches into your daily routine to maintain flexibility.

By incorporating these habits into your daily life, you can protect your hands and fingers from unnecessary strain and injury. Preventative care is essential, especially for those with high-risk occupations or hobbies.

Consult with a Hand Specialist for Trigger Finger Treatment in Guildford & Surrey

Don’t ignore the symptoms of trigger finger. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent deformities and increased pain. Book an appointment with our expert hand specialists in Guildford and Surrey today for personalised care and effective treatment options. Whether you’re looking for orthopaedic care in Guildford or Wimbledon orthopaedic surgery, we are here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trigger Finger

What Causes Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger is caused by repetitive hand movements, arthritis, diabetes, or trauma to the hand. The tendons in the fingers become inflamed, leading to restricted movement and pain.

Can Trigger Finger Be Treated Without Surgery?

Yes, mild cases often respond well to non-surgical treatments such as steroid injections, splinting, and physical therapy. Early intervention can prevent the need for surgery.

What Are the Long-Term Effects If Trigger Finger Is Not Treated?

Long-term effects include permanent deformity, chronic pain, and loss of function, potentially requiring surgical intervention. Timely treatment can prevent these complications.

How Can I Prevent Trigger Finger?

Rest, stretching, strengthening exercises, and avoiding repetitive strain on the hands can help prevent trigger finger. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing conditions like arthritis or diabetes are also essential.

How to Release a Stuck Trigger Finger?

In mild cases, gently massaging the affected area and performing slow stretches can help release a stuck finger. In more severe cases, consulting with a hand specialist for advanced treatments is recommended.

Is Trigger Finger Surgery Risky?

Trigger finger surgery is generally safe, with most patients experiencing successful recovery. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks, including infection or stiffness. Consulting with a qualified hand specialist ensures the best outcomes.

How Can I Prevent Trigger Finger?

Rest, stretching, strengthening exercises, and avoiding repetitive strain on the hands can help prevent trigger finger. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing conditions like arthritis or diabetes are also essential.

How to Release a Stuck Trigger Finger?

In mild cases, gently massaging the affected area and performing slow stretches can help release a stuck finger. In more severe cases, consulting with a hand specialist for advanced treatments is recommended.