I've developed a problem with my first finger of my left hand. Over time it has become fixed into a bent position and I am unable to straighten it easily. Using some force I can straighten it but find that when I do there is a strange popping sensation. Is there a name for this condition?
What you describe so well sounds like a case of trigger finger. Otherwise known as flex or digital tenosynovitis or stenosing tenosynovitis, the condition results in a finger becoming locked into a bent position (flexed). This happens when one of the tendons which flex the finger becomes inflamed and swollen. When we bend and straighten our fingers the tendons move smoothly through their surrounding sheath.
However, when a tendon becomes inflamed and swollen it cannot slide through the sheath as the finger straightens. This causes the finger to lock in position. The popping sensation happens when the swollen tendon is forced into and through the sheath. The sensation is similar to that felt when a trigger is pulled; hence the name. Symptoms include pain with resisted grip and a painful catching or locking of the finger when flexed.
I'm retired and in reasonable health but don't do too much except for a bit of gardening, so what could have caused this?
The condition can be brought by many things including repetitive actions. Activities such as gardening, using a heavy shears, can often bring it on. It can also develop as a result of other medical conditions that produce inflammation such as rheumatoid arthritis or in people with diabetes.
Is there any treatment or am I stuck with it?
Go see your GP for a definitive diagnosis. If trigger finger is found to be the problem then medical management will include injections of corticosteroid and a local anaesthetic into the affected tendon sheath which can help relieve the problem.
Should the condition persist, referral to an occupational therapist with an expertise in treating hand injuries should be sought. An occupational therapist will provide splints for the affected fingers, maintaining them in a neutral position which can help the painful symptoms. She can also advise you on the use of built-up handles on equipment, padded gloves and pacing of activities.
However, in the event the condition becomes chronic, surgical intervention is usually needed to release the affected tendon sheath.