Trigger finger is a condition that prevents the finger or thumb from bending or traps them in a bent position. It is usually harmless but can be a nuisance and can start to hinder day to day activities. If trigger finger goes untreated it may also get worse and eventually result in complete immobility of the finger or thumb that is affected.
Trigger finger is caused by an inflammation in the tunnel surrounding the tendon in your finger. Inflammation makes the space narrower, meaning there is less space for the tendon to move and it can “catch” in the tendon sheath. When the catch is released the finger might bend or straighten quickly, a bit like a trigger being pulled and released.
If you suspect that you have trigger finger and would like to discuss your condition with a specialist, book a consultation today. There is minimal waiting time and no GP referral is needed.
Surgery for trigger finger releases the restricted tendon inside the tendon sheath to allow smooth movement to return.
At the start of the procedure your surgeon will inject the affected finger or thumb with anaesthetic to numb the area. A small incision will then be made in the palm of your hand along one of the natural creases so that any scarring will be less noticeable. Your surgeon will make a cut along the tendon sheath to make it wider and allow the tendon to move freely. Your incision will be closed with stitches and bandaged.
Trigger finger is usually easy to identify but in addition to the finger “catching” you may also experience:
Trigger finger release surgery is a straightforward out-patient procedure and you will be able to leave the clinic on the same day. You will not be able to drive so we recommend that you make arrangements for transport before arriving for the procedure. You will be able to drive again as soon as you feel that it is safe to do so, usually 3-5 days.
You should be able to move the affected finger or thumb immediately after surgery, although it can take up to two weeks for full hand mobility to return. You will also need to keep bandages on for the first few days which will limit some movement.
Immediately after surgery you are likely to experience some pain and discomfort. Pain can be treated with over-the-counter medication like paracetamol and will subside within two weeks.
Most people find that they don’t need to take time off work unless they take a day off for the surgery. However, if your work involves manual labour, intensive movement, or physical strength, then you may need to take up to four weeks off. You should also avoid playing sport for 2-3 weeks following surgery.
Summerfield Healthcare has a specialist team of hand and wrist orthopaedic surgeons who can help you return to normal life and usually recover full use of your hand.
No GP referral is required and we accept self funding and insured patients.
When you book a virtual consultation with Summerfield Healthcare there is minimal waiting for appointments. There is no need for a referral and you can see a specialist without the long delays often associated with the NHS.
Although we are a private service our fees are structured with our patients in mind and we run regular trigger finger release clinics in Cardiff, Shrewsbury & Wolverhampton.
We can arrange your trigger finger treatment or trigger thumb treatment quickly and easily, simply book a consultation with our Consultant Orthopaedic Hand Surgeon online, email your enquiry to [email protected] or call our reception team on 0333 9000 010.
Summerfield Healthcare’s medical reception team are specially trained to deal with all enquiries in a professional, prompt and private manner.
Virtual consultation with our experienced orthopaedic surgeon. Face to face consultations available at your request.
No GP referral needed.
No hidden costs, fee includes:
Trigger finger release procedure
Post surgery orthopaedic consultation virtual (or face to face if required by our consultant)
Stitch removal 10 days post surgery
Alternatively, please call 0333 9000 010 and our team can get you booked in.
To enquire about orthopaedic surgery, please call 0333 9000 010 or simply fill in the form below and we’ll be in touch soon.
If you would like more information on Trigger Finger, please visit the NHS Trigger Finger webpage.