Trigger finger is a condition affecting the flexor tendons in your fingers, causing them to catch, lock, or click when you bend them. This can make everyday tasks painful and difficult.

Seeking a specialist in Singapore is advisable for managing trigger finger. Advanced diagnostic and treatment techniques can offer optimal effective care tailored to your needs.

What is Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger occurs when the protective covering around the tendons becomes inflamed. The condition can be caused by repetitive hand movements, injury, and medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes. Over time, repetitive use and inflammation of the tendons causes the tunnel through which the tendon passes to get tighter, causing more rubbing of the tendon and further inflammation, resulting in a vicious cycle.

Symptoms of Trigger Finger

Trigger finger can manifest through a range of symptoms, varying in severity. Common symptoms include:

  • Difficulty in bending or straightening the affected finger.
  • A popping or clicking sensation or sound when moving the finger.
  • Discomfort or tenderness at the base of the affected finger.
  • In more severe cases, the finger may become locked in a bent position.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a specialist to prevent the condition from worsening.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to the development of trigger finger:

  • Activities, such as typing, playing musical instruments, or manual labour, can strain tendons over time.
  • Excessive use of the fingers without adequate rest.
  • Direct trauma to the hand can result in scar tissue, which may restrict the movement of the tendon.
  • Conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis can make individuals more susceptible to developing trigger finger.

Additionally, trigger finger is most prevalent in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, and women are more likely to be affected than men. Having a family history of trigger finger may also increase your susceptibility to the condition. Also, if you have had a trigger finger, your other fingers may also become more susceptible to developing the condition.

Diagnosis of Trigger Finger

The diagnostic process for trigger finger involves consulting a specialist in Singapore who will conduct a physical examination of your hand and fingers. Occasionally imaging tests may also be recommended:

X-ray:

To visualise the bones and joints in your hand and rule out arthritis or other bone abnormalities.

To create images of the soft tissues to assess the extent of inflammation or thickening.

Non-Surgical Trigger Finger Treatment Options

For most individuals, trigger finger can be managed with non-surgical approaches:

Activity modification:

Avoiding certain repetitive activities can allow the inflamed tendon to rest and heal.

Wearing a splint can help immobilise the affected finger to reduce tension and promote healing.

Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help reduce pain and inflammation.

Injecting a corticosteroid directly into the tendon sheath can markedly reduce inflammation. In mild cases, one injection may be all that is required to cure the condition. In moderate cases, this injection may work more as a temporary anti-inflammatory.

Surgical Treatment for Trigger Finger

While non-surgical treatments are often effective for trigger finger, surgery may be recommended in certain situations:

Severe cases:

When the finger is persistently locked in a bent position, causing pain and impairment.

If non-surgical options fail to provide adequate relief.

When the condition frequently returns despite initial non-surgical treatment.

The most common surgical procedure for trigger finger is called Trigger Finger Release surgery.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision and releases the tendon sheath. Minimally invasive techniques are often employed, resulting in smaller incisions, less scarring, and faster recovery.

After the surgery, you will receive instructions on wound care, pain management, and exercises to help regain finger mobility. Most individuals can resume light activities within a few days and return to their normal activities within a few weeks.

Cost of Trigger Finger Surgery in Singapore

The cost of trigger finger surgery in Singapore varies based on the following few factors: 

  • Severity: More severe cases may incur higher costs.
  • Type of procedure: Minimally invasive techniques may be associated with slightly higher costs.
  • Choice of hospital: Private hospitals generally have higher charges than public hospitals.
  • Surgeon’s experience: Highly experienced surgeons may have higher fees.

Singapore’s Ministry of Health publishes average fees for trigger finger treatment on its website. Hospitalisation insurance plans in Singapore cover trigger finger surgery, but the extent of coverage may vary depending on the exact policy terms. Medisave can also be used to help offset the cost of the procedure. Our clinic is experienced in helping patients check with their insurers on the coverage.

Choosing the Right Trigger Finger Specialist in Singapore

Selecting the right specialist for your trigger finger treatment is important for ensuring effective care. At Centurion Orthopaedic Centre, our doctors have extensive experience in treating trigger finger. We pride ourselves on providing comprehensive and holistic care for our patients, taking into account our patients’ concerns and activity levels. Our specialist in Singapore will guide you on our approach to trigger finger treatment, success rates, and post-operative care protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trigger Finger Treatment in Singapore

What causes trigger finger, and how is it diagnosed?

Trigger finger is often caused by repetitive hand motions, injury, or underlying medical conditions. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination by a specialist. Imaging tests may be used to rule out other conditions.

Yes, in mild cases, trigger finger can resolve without surgery. Non-surgical options can help reduce inflammation and restore normal tendon movement.

Most people can resume light activities within a few days and return to normal activities within a few weeks after trigger finger surgery.

Trigger finger treatment is typically claimable under hospitalisation insurance plans in Singapore. Medisave can also be used to help cover the cost of treatment for conditions like trigger finger and tennis elbow in Singapore. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider and our clinic to understand your coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses.