Trigger finger release is a minimally invasive procedure that can relieve pain and restore your finger’s range of motion. At the Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine in Metairie, Louisiana, orthopedic specialist Luis Espinoza, MD, and his team use minimally invasive trigger finger release to reduce stiffness and irritation caused by trigger finger (a finger that stays locked in a bent position). To learn more about trigger finger release, call the office or book online today.

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What is trigger finger release?

Trigger finger release is an outpatient procedure that improves your finger’s range of motion. During treatment, the Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine team uses special tools to open the tendon sheath. That releases the tendon, reducing pain, and improving your mobility.

Who can benefit from trigger finger release?

Consider trigger finger release at the Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Finger stiffness
  • Tenderness in the palm of your hand
  • A noticeable bump at the base of your finger
  • A finger that catches or locks in a bent position

These symptoms can occur at any time, but they’re usually most noticeable in the morning.

What happens during trigger finger release?

Trigger finger release is an outpatient procedure that takes between 20-30 minutes*.

On the day of the procedure, your surgeon marks your finger with surgical ink and carefully extends it. Next, they wrap a tourniquet around your arm and administer a local anesthetic.

After the anesthesia sets in, your provider makes a small incision in the palm of your hand. Then, they use special tools to release the tendon holding your finger in a locked position. After releasing the tendon, your provider removes the tools, closes the incision, and moves you to a recovery room.

The team monitors you for about an hour until the anesthesia wears off. Then, a friend or family member picks you up and takes you home.

What is recovery like after trigger finger release?

It takes about six weeks to fully recover from trigger finger release. Even so, you can return to work and other routine activities within 3-4 days.

While you’re recovering, follow the team’s instructions carefully. Get plenty of rest, drink lots of water, and take your medications as prescribed. After your finger begins healing, enroll in physical therapy. Physical therapy speeds up the recovery process by increasing your strength and range of motion.

What are the benefits of trigger finger release?

Trigger finger release offers various benefits, including:

  • Improved range of motion
  • Pain relief
  • Decreased inflammation
  • Improved quality of life

After an in-office exam and a discussion of your symptoms, the team can determine if you qualify for treatment.

To learn more about the benefits of trigger finger release, call the Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine and make an appointment or book online today.

*Individual results may vary.