A snapping finger

Clicking fingers (commonly referred to as jumping or shooting fingers) is an anatomical defect resulting from inflammation of the tendon sheaths and flexor retinaculum. These are the structures responsible for the direct movement of the finger flexor muscles.

Thickening/narrowing of the sheath causes the tendon slippage disorder, which translates into impaired movement of the entire finger. The disease most often affects the long flexor of the thumb and the superficial flexors of the fingers. It is typical of middle-aged people (between 40 and 60 years of age).

Causes:

The etiology of the disease is not fully established.
The factors contributing to its formation are primarily mechanical injuries and overloading of the finger muscles (e.g. when working at the keyboard or playing instruments).

The following also contribute to the development of slamming fingers:

• rheumatological diseases – e.g. RA,
• gout,
• diabetes.

Symptoms:

• pain when bending the finger - the phenomenon of painful "jumping" of the tendon,
• inflammation - swelling and redness of the skin of the finger,
• finger locking,
• a lump limiting mobility in the area of the thickened retinaculum,
• permanent stiffening of the finger (at an advanced stage).
  
  
  

Surgical procedure - slamming finger

Description of the procedure:
The operation is performed in an ischemic field obtained by placing a tourniquet on the arm. The procedure consists in surgical cutting or removal of the inflamed sheath of the finger flexor tendon and causing free movement of the finger flexor tendon.

Performing a snapping thumb operation does not guarantee the resolution of existing ailments. The final effect of treatment is closely related to compliance with medical recommendations and the performance of a full cycle of rehabilitation treatments individually tailored to each patient.

After treatment:

• The hand can be worn in a sling for several days - this will reduce hand swelling and pain.
• You may experience hand pain and numbness in your fingers for a few days - painkillers are recommended - according to your information about the dose of the medicine and how to take it.
• After the operation, the night pain in the hand should subside.
• On the first day after the operation, there is a slight congestion of the dressing.
• On the second day after the operation, you should start exercising the operated trigger finger as much as the dressing allows. This prevents the stiffness of the fingers and the formation of hand swelling. You should also exercise your elbow and shoulder.
• The sutures are removed on the 10th day after the operation. Until then, try not to lower your hands day and night.
• The operated hand should be spared for 6 weeks (do not perform work requiring a forceful grip of the hand).