Expert Trigger Finger Treatment in Altrincham, UK
Restore Smooth Finger Movement with Expert Trigger Finger Surgery
Trigger finger, medically known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a common condition that causes fingers to click, catch, or lock when bending. At Bollin Clinic in Altrincham, our experienced hand surgeons provide comprehensive trigger finger treatment to restore smooth finger movement and eliminate pain. Our minimally invasive approach ensures faster recovery and excellent long-term results.
What is Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger is a condition where one of your fingers gets stuck in a bent position and may straighten with a snap, like pulling and releasing a trigger. Also called stenosing tenosynovitis, this occurs when inflammation narrows the space within the sheath that surrounds the tendon in the affected finger. The tendon can no longer glide smoothly through the sheath, causing the finger to catch or lock.
Signs and Symptoms of Trigger Finger
Trigger finger symptoms typically start gradually and can affect any finger, though the ring finger and thumb are most commonly affected. Recognising these symptoms early can help ensure prompt and effective treatment:
- Finger stiffness, particularly in the morning
- A popping or clicking sensation when you move your finger
- Tenderness or a bump (nodule) at the base of the affected finger
- Finger catching or locking in a bent position
- Finger locks in a bent position and suddenly pops straight
- Inability to fully straighten your finger
In severe cases, the finger may become locked in a bent position and you may be unable to straighten it without assistance from your other hand.
What Are the Benefits of Trigger Finger Treatment?
- Complete elimination of clicking and locking sensations
- Restored smooth finger movement and full range of motion
- Significant pain relief and improved hand function
- Prevention of permanent finger contracture
- Restored independence in personal care and work activities
How Long is the Recovery from Trigger Finger Surgery?
After trigger finger surgery, your stitches will be removed around 10 days post-surgery. Complete healing of your finger typically takes about 6 weeks, while stiffness and soreness may persist for 4 to 6 months. If you experience ongoing pain after surgery, your doctor may recommend hand exercises or physical therapy. For those whose work doesn't require hand use, returning to work may be possible after just 1 or 2 days following surgery.
Post Operative Activities
Please refer to the hand therapy exercise sheet provided for patients who have undergone trigger finger release surgery. It's essential to keep your fingers moving to decrease swelling, and patients should observe a 6-week rest period from sports and heavy lifting. Normal activities, such as driving, may be resumed as soon as you feel comfortable.
Your hand will likely be in a heavy bandage or splint for 1 to 2 weeks, after which the bandage and stitches are removed. Patients may be referred to physical therapy to improve stiffness and restore range of motion.
After 2-4 weeks: Patients gradually resume activity in the affected hand. You'll probably experience some pain in your hand after surgery, which is usually controlled with oral pain medications. The surgeon may also recommend keeping the affected hand elevated while sleeping at night to help decrease swelling.
After 6 to 8 weeks: Patients should be back to nearly full daily life and sporting activities, though some soreness in the palm may persist with deep pressure or touch. Symptoms typically improve significantly, but there may still be some residual stiffness in the fingers.
Trigger finger release surgery is a low-risk procedure with high success rates in quickly relieving symptoms and restoring finger function. Mobility, coordination, and strength in the hand gradually improve over several weeks and months, with continued improvement possible up to or beyond a year from the surgery.
What is the Process for Trigger Finger Treatment in Altrincham?
At Bollin Clinic, we provide a comprehensive approach to trigger finger treatment in Altrincham. Our experienced team is here to support you at every step — from your initial consultation through to ongoing management of your condition.
Consultation & Assessment
Your journey with trigger finger treatment in Altrincham begins with a thorough consultation. During this session, our specialist will assess your medical history, understand your symptoms, and design a personalised treatment plan. We may refer you to a hand therapist for initial conservative management if appropriate.
- Detailed medical history and symptom assessment
- Physical examination of affected fingers
- Assessment of triggering severity and finger function
- Discussion of treatment options from conservative to surgical
Treatment Options
Trigger finger treatment in Altrincham can vary depending on the severity of your condition and your individual needs. Treatment options may include:
- Non-surgical treatments (rest, splinting, anti-inflammatory medication)
- Steroid injections for inflammation relief
- Percutaneous trigger finger release for minimal invasive treatment
- Open surgical release for severe cases
- Hand therapy and rehabilitation support
Recovery & Ongoing Care
Following your trigger finger treatment in Altrincham, recovery time will depend on the type of treatment received. For surgical procedures, you'll typically be treated as a day case, and you can expect some minor discomfort initially, but medications will help control that.
- Hand therapy plan to restore function and strength
- Regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress
- Within 2 to 4 weeks, gradual return to normal activities
- Long-term management strategies for ongoing hand health
Our team is committed to ensuring you achieve the best possible outcome from your trigger finger treatment in Altrincham. Regular follow-up appointments will help us monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Risk Factors for Trigger Finger
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Risk Factor
Age - trigger finger is most common in people aged 40-60, though it can occur at any age.
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Risk Factor
Gender - women are more likely to develop trigger finger than men.
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Risk Factor
Diabetes - people with diabetes have a higher risk of developing trigger finger.
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Risk Factor
Repetitive activities - occupations requiring repetitive gripping can increase risk.
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Risk Factor
Rheumatoid arthritis - inflammatory conditions can contribute to trigger finger development.
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Risk Factor
Previous hand conditions - other hand problems may increase susceptibility.
See our faqs
Trigger Finger Treatment – Your Questions Answered
What exactly is trigger finger and what causes it?
Trigger finger occurs when the tendon sheath becomes inflamed and narrowed, preventing the tendon from gliding smoothly. This causes the finger to catch or lock when bending. It's often caused by repetitive gripping activities, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or age-related changes.
Which fingers are most commonly affected by trigger finger?
The ring finger and thumb are most commonly affected, though trigger finger can occur in any finger. It's possible to have trigger finger in multiple fingers simultaneously, and the condition can affect both hands.
How long does trigger finger surgery take and is it painful?
Trigger finger release surgery typically takes 15-30 minutes and is performed under local anaesthetic, so you won't feel pain during the procedure. Some discomfort is normal after surgery, but this is well-managed with pain medication and typically resolves within a few days.
What is the recovery time after trigger finger surgery?
Most patients can return to desk work within 2-3 days and resume normal activities within 2-4 weeks. The triggering usually stops immediately after surgery, though some swelling and tenderness are normal for the first few weeks as the incision heals.
Are there non-surgical treatments for trigger finger?
Yes, non-surgical options include rest, splinting, anti-inflammatory medications, and steroid injections. However, these treatments are most effective in mild cases. Surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments fail or in severe cases with persistent locking.
What is the success rate of trigger finger surgery?
Trigger finger surgery has an excellent success rate of over 95%. Most patients experience immediate relief from triggering symptoms and complete resolution of the problem. Complications are rare, and long-term results are typically excellent.
Can trigger finger come back after surgery?
Recurrence of trigger finger after surgery is very rare, occurring in less than 5% of cases. When it does occur, it's usually due to incomplete release of the tendon sheath or development of scar tissue. Most patients enjoy permanent relief from symptoms.
How Much Does Trigger Finger Surgery Cost in Altrincham?
The cost of trigger finger surgery in Altrincham varies depending on the complexity of your case, the number of fingers affected, and any specific requirements you may have. As a minimally invasive day case procedure, trigger finger surgery is typically more affordable than complex hand surgeries.
At Bollin Clinic, we provide transparent pricing with no hidden costs. During your consultation, you'll receive a detailed breakdown of all fees associated with your trigger finger treatment. We believe in upfront, honest pricing so you can make informed decisions about your care.
What Does the Cost of Trigger Finger Surgery Include?
When you choose Bollin Clinic for your trigger finger surgery, your treatment package includes comprehensive care from consultation through recovery:
- Initial consultation and detailed diagnosis
- Pre-operative assessment and planning
- Surgical procedure with local anaesthetic
- Day case facility fees and surgical equipment
- Post-operative follow-up appointments
- Wound care instructions and dressing supplies
- Access to hand therapy if required
- Ongoing support throughout your recovery
Our experienced team at Bollin Clinic is committed to providing exceptional trigger finger treatment with excellent outcomes. We ensure you receive comprehensive care from initial assessment through complete recovery, with ongoing support whenever you need it.