Sticking and often painful popping of a trigger finger or thumb can hinder normal hand use. Early on, a brace to keep the digit partially extended at night may resolve the issue. If it progresses, ultrasound can show thickened ligament or pulley restricting tendon motion causing the triggering. If caught early, a small local cortisone injection combined with fenestration of the ligament can provide prolonged relief.
If triggering is severe or locking occurrs requiring using the other hand to straighten the finger, release of the ligament provides excellent treatment. Traditional surgery involves an incision in the palm of the hand. Healing can be slow and may leave a painful scar. Using ultrasound guidance, I release the ligament using a needle in a short procedure that leaves only a small quickly healing puncture. The hand can be used immediately. firm gripping is avoided for a week or so.