M65.34

Clinical Causes: Repeated gripping or gripping actions that strain the finger tendons Injury or trauma to the finger or hand Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis Underlying health issues like diabetes mellitus Anatomical differences or thickening of the tendons Age-related degenerative changes in the tendons

Key Symptoms: A clicking or popping sensation when moving the finger Tenderness or a bump (nodule) at the base of the affected finger Difficulty in bending or straightening the ring finger smoothly Finger catching or locking in a bent position, sometimes requiring manual help to straighten Pain at the base of the finger, especially during movement or grasping

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on a healthcare provider’s physical examination. The provider may observe the catching or locking of the finger and palpate for tenderness or swelling in the region of the flexor tendon sheath. Imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI, are rarely needed but can help rule out other conditions or assess the extent of inflammation. The healthcare provider will also inquire about the duration of symptoms, occupation, and underlying health conditions to aid the diagnosis.

Treatment Protocols: Management options for trigger finger include non-surgical and surgical approaches, tailored to the severity of the symptoms: - *Rest and activity modifications:* Avoiding activities that worsen symptoms - *Splinting:* Wearing a finger splint to limit movement and reduce inflammation - *Anti-inflammatory medications:* Such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to decrease pain and swelling - *Stretching and hand exercises:* To maintain flexibility - *Corticosteroid injections:* Administered directly into the tendon sheath to reduce inflammation and allow the tendon to glide smoothly - *Surgical intervention:* If symptoms persist or worsen despite conservative treatments, a procedure called trigger finger release surgery may be performed. This involves cutting the pulley that constricts the tendon, allowing free movement of the finger. Post-treatment rehabilitation often includes hand exercises and follow-up care to restore full finger function and prevent recurrence.