M65.32

Clinical Causes: Repeated finger movements, especially grasping or gripping activities Injury or trauma to the finger or hand Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis Age-related wear and tear of the tendons Underlying medical conditions such as diabetes mellitus Genetic predisposition to tendon inflammation

Key Symptoms: A catching or popping sensation when straightening or bending the affected finger Finger stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity Tenderness or swelling at the base of the affected finger A painful lump or nodule at the base of the finger Difficulty in fully extending or flexing the finger In severe cases, the finger may lock in a bent position

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination where a healthcare provider assesses finger movement, tenderness, and swelling. They may ask about activities that exacerbate symptoms and perform specific maneuvers to reproduce triggering events. In some cases, imaging tests such as ultrasound or X-rays may be ordered to rule out other conditions and assess the extent of tendon inflammation or thickening.

Treatment Protocols: Management of trigger finger ranges from conservative to surgical interventions: - **Rest and immobilization:** Avoiding activities that worsen symptoms and using splints to limit finger movement. - **Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs):** To reduce inflammation and relieve pain. - **Steroid injections:** Corticosteroid injections into the tendon sheath can decrease inflammation and provide relief. - **Physical therapy:** Exercises to improve flexibility and reduce symptoms. - **Surgical release:** If conservative treatments fail, a minor surgical procedure called trigger finger release may be performed. This involves cutting the pulley that constricts the tendon, allowing for smoother finger movement.