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What Causes Trigger Finger After The Removal Of A Thumb Casting?

Posted on Thu, 14 Apr 2016

Question: I had ligament thumb surgery on 02/10/2015 and I was in a cast for 8 weeks after the cast was removed I developed trigger finger on my ring finger is that normal?

does this happen often after surgery and being in a cast for that long

Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (34 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It is unusual in a well placed cast though immobilisation can unmask it

Detailed Answer:
Hi there.

Thanks for the query.

Usually Trigger finger occurs due to formation of a lump in the tendon which is caused by repetitive trauma due to excessive forceful clutching or wringing activities.

A cast in good position should not cause the same but immobility in a cast can unmask a developing trigger finger.

If you are looking to find a solution, the available options for you are local steroid injection around the lump in the palm, open or percutaneous release of the tendon sheath which will allow your finger to move smoothly. Side effects are minimal.

I hope I have answered your query.

I will be available to answer your follow up queries.

Regards,

Dr. Aashish Raghu

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Aashish Raghu (34 minutes later)

I tried the steroid injection it didn't work its actually got worse the last 4 months

Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Needs surgical release

Detailed Answer:
Usually steroid infection aggravates the sunroofs for a few weeks and then you should find relief thence.

You could go in for surgical release of the tight tendon sheath which is a day care procedure with minimal side effects. You shall be symptom free henceforth.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Aashish Raghu (10 hours later)

i had the injection about six months ago it gave me no relief or help and i dont want surgery because i am afraid it will cause more problems and possibly more fingers getting trigger finger like what developed after i had surgery on my thumb i developed trigger finger on my left ring finger i didnt have it before my thumb ligament surgery.

Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (54 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Hope you will reconsider

Detailed Answer:
Usually that will not happen and the relief after surgery is profound.

I hope you will reconsider your decision after watching patient testimonials online and speaking to a few as well.

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Naveen Kumar