Fingers: Common Conditions & Treatments

Key Takeaways

• Trigger finger is one of the common finger conditions where a finger gets stuck in a bent position, often requiring rest, splints, or surgery.

• Arthritis in the fingers can lead to pain and stiffness, with treatment options ranging from medication to physical therapy.

• Finger injuries, such as sprains and fractures, need immediate attention to prevent long-term damage.

• Preventive measures, including hand exercises and ergonomic tools, can help maintain finger health.

• MSK Doctors offers specialised musculoskeletal care for finger conditions by leading orthopaedic consultants that require no GP referral.

Understanding Finger Health

Our fingers are made up of bones, joints, tendons, and ligaments that work together to provide flexibility and strength (image courtesy of Wikipedia).

Several conditions can affect the fingers, ranging from temporary discomfort to chronic pain. Some of the most common finger conditions include trigger finger, arthritis, and various injuries. 

Common Finger Conditions

Trigger Finger

Trigger finger is a condition that causes one or more fingers to become stuck in a bent position. It is often painful and can significantly affect hand function. The condition is named trigger finger because the affected finger may snap back suddenly - like a trigger being pulled and released.

Causes of Trigger Finger

Trigger finger occurs when the tendons in the finger become inflamed. This inflammation can be due to repetitive use of the hand, injury, or underlying health conditions like diabetes. The tendons become unable to glide smoothly through their sheaths, leading to a catching sensation.

Symptoms to Watch For

The symptoms of trigger finger include stiffness, a popping or clicking sensation when moving the finger, and pain at the base of the affected finger. In severe cases, the finger may become locked in a bent position and require manual straightening.

Arthritis in Fingers

Types of Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that results from wear and tear, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the joints. Both types can cause similar symptoms but require different treatment approaches.

How Arthritis Affects Fingers

The joints in our fingers are small and delicate - and arthritis can lead to significant pain and swelling. Over time, the cartilage that cushions the joints wears away - leading to bone rubbing against bone. This causes pain and stiffness, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks.

In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system mistakenly attacks the joint lining, causing inflammation and joint damage. This can lead to deformities in the fingers and a decrease in hand function. 

People with arthritis in their fingers may find it challenging to grip objects, write, or even button a shirt.

Finger Injuries

Finger injuries are common, especially in individuals who engage in sports, manual labor, or activities requiring fine motor skills. These injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to more serious fractures and dislocations. 

Effective Treatment Methods

Treatment options depend on the condition and its severity. 

Treatment for Trigger Finger

For example, mild cases of trigger finger may improve with rest and over-the-counter pain relievers. More severe cases might require splinting or steroid injections to reduce inflammation. In cases where conservative treatments fail, surgery may be necessary to release the tendon. 

Doctors may also prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and diclofenac can help reduce pain and swelling for trigger finger. 

Treatment for Arthritis in Fingers

Managing arthritis in the fingers involves a combination of treatments to reduce pain and improve joint function. 

• Medications: Doctors may prescribe disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for rheumatoid arthritis.

• Exercises: Can improve range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the joints. A physical therapist can tailor a program to your needs.

• Splints: Wearing a splint can help rest the joint and reduce pain, especially during flare-ups.

• Hot and Cold Therapy: Applying heat can relax muscles and relieve stiffness, while cold packs can reduce swelling and numb sharp pain.

• Joint Protection: Using assistive devices can reduce stress on the joints during daily activities.

Treatment for Finger Injuries

On the other hand, treating finger injuries depends on the severity and type of injury. For sprains, rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) are often recommended. 

Fractures may require immobilisation with a splint or cast, and in some cases, surgical intervention is necessary to realign the bones.

Exercises to Maintain Flexibility

Simple exercises like finger stretches, fist clenches, and thumb circles can be done daily to keep your fingers agile.

Preventing Finger Conditions

Incorporating certain habits into your daily routine can help keep your fingers strong and flexible. Here are a few tips:

• Stay Active: Regular physical activity promotes overall joint health and flexibility.

• Maintain a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in nutrients like calcium, vitamin D and magnesium which supports bone and joint health.

• Take Breaks: If your work involves repetitive hand movements, take frequent breaks to rest your hands.

• Use Ergonomic Tools: Choose tools and equipment that reduce strain on your fingers during repetitive tasks. 

For a pianist, a finger strengthener is a useful tool. These small devices feature individual spring-loaded buttons for each finger, allowing musicians to build finger strength, dexterity, and independence through targeted resistance training (image courtesy of Amazon).

Your Hand Health Journey Starts Here

At MSK Doctors, we understand how crucial finger and hand functionality is to your quality of life. Our specialised team offers advanced diagnostic capabilities and personalised treatment plans for all finger conditions. 

Our orthopaedic consultants specialise in hand and finger conditions, providing personalised treatment plans with consistent 5-star patient satisfaction ratings.

We offer a cutting-edge approach to improving finger health by combining  advanced diagnostic technology like MAI-Motion and regenerative treatments. Backed by years of orthopaedic expertise and a patient-focused approach, our methods ensure precise diagnosis and effective treatment.

Contact MSK Doctors today to schedule your consultation and experience healthcare that puts your hand health first.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I know if my finger pain requires medical attention?

Seek medical attention if you experience severe pain, noticeable deformity, inability to bend or straighten your finger, or if symptoms persist for more than a few days despite home treatment.

Can trigger finger resolve on its own?

Mild cases of trigger finger may resolve on its own with rest and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. 

What's the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in fingers?

Osteoarthritis typically affects individual joints and results from wear and tear, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that often affects multiple joints symmetrically and may cause more pronounced deformities.

Are there exercises I can do at home to help with finger arthritis?

Yes, gentle stretching exercises, finger bends, and grip strengthening can help maintain mobility and reduce stiffness. 

Why should I choose MSK Doctors for my finger condition treatment?

MSK Doctors offers direct access to specialist care, state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, cutting-edge treatments including regenerative therapies, and a multidisciplinary team approach.