Trigger thumb

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sorcerertd

sorcerertd

Member
Joined
Sep 30, 2019
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3,338
Location
North Carolina, USA
I haven't turned in a bit as I am trying to rest my hands. I might have to rethink my grip. For anyone that hasn't had trigger finger, it hurts. My thumb would lock up so tightly that I needed to straighten it out with the other hand. I wish I would have tried treating it sooner since it just kept getting worse. I'm using a full wrist brace, having removed the wrist piece and just using it to keep the thumb immobile at night. After a couple weeks, I'm finding it is starting to move a little after loosening up with normal daily motion, but not nearly enough.

Interestingly, the only activity that seems to loosen it up well is riding the motorcycle. With this weather, I'm starting to understand how a chicken feels on the rotisserie, though. At least it's not snowing. Can you imagine trying to shovel snow in this heat?
 
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Sorry to hear about your thumb. I'm understanding what you are going through. My middle finger has started locking up constantly for the last month. I'm about ready to make a brace to keep my finger immobile.
 
I had that and was diagnosed with arthritis in the joints. However, it was short lived and haven't had any trouble in years. Everything else is a different story.
 
Sataro said:
Sorry to hear about your thumb. I'm understanding what you are going through. My middle finger has started locking up constantly for the last month. I'm about ready to make a brace to keep my finger immobile.
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Someone I know told me they had the same problem with a finger and that they used one of those simple foam lined aluminum splints from CVS at night, which made it better during the day. That's what actually made me start using the brace. It does seem to be helping. It would probably be better if I had not let it go as long.

Woodchipper said:
Everything else is a different story.
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Aging is definitely not for wimps.
 
I just had x-rays taken of my hands, it showed severe degeneration of the triscaphe (thumb bone in wrist) joint in my right hand and moderate in my left. The doctor gave me splints to wear but THAT ain't happening, can't do a damn thing with them on. I started using Voltaren hand creme and that helps manage the pain. Getting old sucks.
 
Hi Rick.
Like you I'm of the age that "it sucks"
A colleague had what was described as a "click finger" and was given a steroid injection into his finger. He says it definitely eased the pain and the locking up of his finger.
Know nothing about the health service your way, just a suggestion.
I have knee problems, and I had a steroid injection in the knee. It didn't cure all the pain, but certainly got rid of that "sharp" nagging pain.
Hope my suggestions are of help.

Dave
 
I had my local GP doc that I go to for colds, and my GP Doc that I use for annual physicals (45 miles away) and serious needs and referrals - both told me to 1. exercise it, 2. a splint and 3. get a shot if necessary. I used a splint most of the time for a (several actually) month and every night, but it didn't help. And finally I went to an orthopedic doc that watched my finger lock up and he said I needed surgery. He described the differences and stages, and pointed out the indentions in my hand. BUT he said, let me give you a shot and see if it comes back or if it helps. IF I don't get another "trigger" before 3 months I might be in the clear. I was back in 3 weeks. He did the surgery and I have not looked back.

For docs to tell woodworkers or mechanics or those who enjoy physical labor as work or hobby to use a splint, or even not recommending a referral to a specialist - that can be dangerous. My trigger finger locked up as I picked up a full cup of coffee and I wasn't gripping hard, I instantly sat it down and jerked my hand off, sending the cup of hot coffee flying. (No one was around and I only broke a cup.) No one needs this finger lock-up to happen when their hand is on a saw or other tool, and they set it down and taking the hand off the tool without the trigger finger releasing - causing it to go flying or starting back up. It can be dangerous.
 
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leehljp said:
No one needs this finger lock-up to happen when their hand is on a saw or other tool
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Yes. This!!!!!!!!!!

Just wearing the splint at night while I sleep helps it during the day. I have Voltarin, but it doesn't seem to be doing anything noticeable. I use the VA for health care needs. They are much better than they used to be, and almost always on time! They'll do the cortisone shot for me if I request it (which I may) At least it's my left (non-dominant) hand. It stays flat when I'm holding a chisel. I decided now is not a great time to get used to the oval one I just bought, though.
 
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