Signs and Symptoms
- Pain in the palm at the base of the finger or thumb
- You may have a tender nodule or lump at the base of the finger in the palm.
- The finger May lock (trigger) in a flexed position and then experience a snapping sensation as you try to open (extend) it. This is usually painful. Some people feel like a joint is dislocating. This is not the case however.
Diagnosis
- Relatively straightforward with history and physical exam alone.
Background
- This is a very common condition. Most people report a recent increase in their activity level with their hands such as gardening or a long-distance drive. The majority of the cases I see all from repetitive grip type activities. They occur more commonly in patients with diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. It is the result of thickened tissue in the Palm that does not allow for smooth gliding of the tendons that control motion of the finger. In the more severe cases the finger may get locked in the palm and you have to use the other fingers to unlock it.
Treatment
Conservative (Non Surgical)
- While this may seem quite concerning the treatment is actually quite simple.
- One or two corticosteroid injections will resolve most cases.
Surgery
- Surgery is recommended for those that do not resolve or have a recurrence after the injections.
