Related articles: Snap-on finger
Definition
The snap finger - also called stenosing tenosynovitis - is a disorder that affects the flexor tendons of the fingers.
The tendons are fibrous cords that connect the muscle to the bone and are surrounded by a protective membrane containing the synovial fluid, which lubricates and allows free flow. In the case of the snap finger, the tendon remains locked inside the synovial sheath and only by force is it possible to extend the finger.
The snap finger can be caused by the formation of nodules or cysts on the tendon, or by the narrowing and thickening of the sheath that surrounds it due to the presence of an inflammatory process.
The disorder affects the dominant hand the most and is usually the consequence of particular gestures made repeatedly. In the long run, in fact, the use of scissors, shears, screwdrivers and other tools can cause a sort of arthrosis of the metacarpus and phalanges. For this reason, the snap finger can hit multiple fingers simultaneously.
People forced to perform repetitive gripping actions, for employment or hobby reasons, are more susceptible. Among the predisposing factors are trauma to the hand, rheumatic diseases, diabetes and some infections.
In addition, tendon cysts or tendon thickening can simply be age-related.
Most common symptoms and signs *
- Hand and wrist pain
- Articolar pains
- Tingling in the right hand
- Tingling in the hands
- Joint swelling
- Nodule
- Joint stiffness
Further indications
The snap finger is a very annoying disorder, as it greatly limits the function of the hand. It manifests itself with a shooting sensation when the finger performs a flexion-extension movement. It may also happen that the finger gets stuck in a bent position, then suddenly straightens up suddenly. Other symptoms are stiffness (especially in the morning) and pain at the base of the affected finger. Sometimes, the pain can radiate to the palm of the hand.
The diagnosis of the snap finger is essentially clinical. The physical examination allows the doctor to identify the painful areas and verify the fluidity of the movements. With the palpation of the palm, however, the doctor can detect the presence of any subcutaneous nodules.
The therapeutic treatment depends on the severity of the disorder. In milder cases, the doctor may suggest splinting or wearing a brace to rest the joint involved. When symptoms are more severe, cortisone infiltration can be used to relieve inflammation. If there are no improvements, the only solution is to undergo surgical treatment.
