At Veda Medical, we offer comprehensive care for various hand and finger conditions, including Trigger Finger, Jammed Finger, and Mallet Finger. Our expert team of hand surgeons and therapists is well-equipped to diagnose, treat, and manage these conditions to help patients regain optimal hand function and quality of life.

Trigger Finger is a condition where a finger gets stuck in a bent position and then snaps straight, much like pulling and releasing a trigger. It is often caused by inflammation and narrowing of the sheath surrounding the tendon in the affected finger. It can cause pain, stiffness, and discomfort, impacting the ability to perform daily tasks.

A jammed Finger is a common sports injury where the tip of a finger or thumb is pushed into the hand, causing a sprain or strain to the ligaments around the finger joints. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, and difficulty in moving the finger. However, it may seem like a minor injury; untreated or improperly managed jammed fingers can lead to long-term complications.

Mallet Finger, also known as baseball finger, occurs when an object strikes the tip of the finger or thumb and forces it to bend further than it is intended to go. This causes a tear in the extensor tendon, leading to an inability to extend the distal joint of the finger or thumb on one’s own. The tip of the finger or thumb often droops noticeably in this condition.

Each of these conditions requires a unique approach to diagnosis and treatment. At Veda Medical, we leverage the latest diagnostic tools and employ state-of-the-art treatment techniques, from conservative management to surgical interventions, as necessary. We believe in providing patient-centric, personalized care, and our goal is to ensure your journey to recovery is as smooth and effective as possible.

What is Trigger Finger

Trigger finger is a common condition affecting the hand’s flexor tendons, the ropes of tissue that connect the muscles of the forearm to the bones of the fingers, enabling finger movement. One or more fingers become stuck in a bent position with a trigger finger as if pulling a trigger. The finger may straighten with a snap, hence the term “trigger finger.”

Trigger finger begins with discomfort at the base of the finger or thumb, where they connect to the palm. The area may be tender to the touch, and you may notice a small lump. As the condition progresses, the finger may start to catch or lock in a bent position and then suddenly pop straight. Eventually, the finger may not fully straighten or bend at all.

The cause of the trigger finger lies in the mechanism that allows our fingers to flex and straighten. The flexor tendons slide through a snug tunnel, known as the tendon sheath, which keeps them close to the bone. When the finger bends, the tendon glides through the sheath, pulled by the flexor muscle. However, if the tendon sheath becomes inflamed and narrows, or if the tendon swells, it can create a nodule that hinders smooth gliding, causing the characteristic catching or locking sensation.

Factors contributing to the trigger finger include repetitive or forceful finger movements, such as gripping tools or musical instruments for long periods. Medical conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout can also increase the risk of developing trigger fingers.

Diagnosing a trigger finger is generally straightforward and based on a physical examination. Your doctor at Veda Medical will examine your hand to check for tenderness, a lump in the palm, and the tell-tale catching during finger movement. In most cases, no additional tests are necessary. Treatment for trigger fingers ranges from conservative approaches to surgical intervention, depending on the condition’s severity. The primary goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation and swelling, allowing the flexor tendon to glide freely through the tendon sheath.

Conservative treatments often include rest and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, like ibuprofen, to reduce swelling and discomfort. Splinting can keep the finger neutral, preventing it from bending into the trigger position during sleep. Gentle finger exercises can also help maintain mobility and prevent stiffness.

In cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, a steroid injection into the tendon sheath can reduce inflammation and allow more natural movement. Steroid injections are often effective but may not provide a long-term solution for everyone, particularly those with diabetes.

In severe or persistent cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. This usually involves a procedure called a trigger finger release. In this outpatient procedure, a small incision is made at the base of the affected finger, and the tendon sheath is cut open to allow the tendon to move freely. This procedure is typically very successful in resolving the issue, and most patients regain full finger function following a short period of healing and rehabilitation.

Trigger finger is a common but potentially debilitating condition. However, it can be managed effectively with the right diagnosis and treatment. At Veda Medical, our team of experts is experienced in handling all aspects of the trigger finger, from diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation, ensuring you regain the full use of your hand as quickly as possible.

What is a Jammed Finger and Mallet Finger

Jammed Finger and Mallet Finger are two common finger injuries often resulting from sports or physical activities, but they can also occur during everyday activities. Both can cause significant discomfort and impact hand function, but their causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches differ.

Jammed Finger

A jammed finger occurs when the fingertip forcefully hits an object or person, causing an impact or compression force on the finger joint. This force can injure the structures around the finger joint, including the ligaments that help stabilize the joint. Ligament injuries can range from mild sprain to a severe tear.

Symptoms of a jammed finger typically include pain immediately after the injury, swelling, difficulty in moving the finger, and sometimes, visible deformity. Bruising may also develop after some time.

Treatment for a jammed finger usually begins with the R.I.C.E. protocol – rest, ice, compression, and elevation – to manage pain and swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help reduce discomfort. If the pain and swelling do not improve with these measures or if the finger is visibly deformed, it’s essential to seek medical attention.

At Veda Medical, we will perform a physical examination and may order imaging studies like X-rays to assess the injury’s extent and rule out fractures. Depending on the injury severity, treatment may involve splinting or buddy taping, where the injured finger is taped to an adjacent healthy finger for support. Surgical intervention may be required in severe cases, such as ligament tears or fractures.

Mallet Finger

Mallet finger, or baseball finger, happens when an object strikes the tip of the finger, causing it to bend unnaturally. This sudden force can result in a tear of the extensor tendon on the back of the finger. The extensor tendon is vital for straightening our fingers. When this tendon is damaged, the finger tip can’t be straightened and droops down, resembling a mallet, hence the name.

Symptoms of a mallet finger include a drooping fingertip that cannot be straightened voluntarily, pain, and swelling. In some cases, the force that caused the mallet finger can also lead to a bone fracture, leading to additional pain and swelling.

Treatment for mallet fingers primarily aims to restore the normal straightening ability of the finger. For most people, this can be achieved through non-surgical methods. At Veda Medical, we treat mallet fingers by splinting the finger’s end joint. The splint holds the finger in an extended position, allowing the tendon to heal. Keeping the splint on continuously for several weeks is critical, as any attempt to bend the finger can disrupt healing.

In cases where the injury involves a large fracture or if the joint is misaligned, surgery may be necessary. This can involve pinning the joint in place or repairing the fracture with a small screw. Hand therapy is often beneficial after treatment for both jammed and mallet fingers. At Veda Medical, our therapists will guide you through exercises to improve your finger’s strength and range of motion, helping you return to your regular activities.

While jammed and mallet fingers are common injuries; they can significantly impact hand function if not treated correctly. Therefore, seeking professional medical help is essential if you experience these conditions. At Veda Medical, we provide comprehensive care for these injuries, from an accurate diagnosis to personalized treatment plans, ensuring you recover effectively and regain optimal hand function.

Other Services We Provide

• Bursitis
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrom
• Carpometacarpal Boss
• Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
• Dupuytren’s Contracture
• Fingers
• Ganglion Cysts
• Nail Bed Injuries 
• Nerve and Tendon Injuries
• Power Saw Injuries
• Psoriatic Arthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Scaphoid Union and Non-Union
• Stiffness in the Hand and Wrist
• Thumb
• Wrist Facture
• Wrist Sprain

Question & Answer

Question: I’m experiencing pain, and my finger seems stuck in a bent position, then snaps back when I try to straighten it. Could this be a trigger finger? What treatments are available at Veda Medical?

Answer: Yes, the symptoms you describe align with the trigger finger, a condition where the flexor tendon in your finger becomes inflamed and swollen. At Veda Medical, we offer a range of treatments starting from non-invasive methods like rest, splinting, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. We might recommend a steroid injection into the tendon sheath to reduce inflammation if these are ineffective. In severe or persistent cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. This generally involves trigger finger release, which helps the tendon move freely.

Question: I injured my finger during a basketball game, and it’s painful and swollen. Could this be a jammed finger, and how is it treated at Veda Medical?

Answer: You may have a jammed finger, commonly occurring during sports when the finger forcefully hits an object. The first line of treatment at Veda Medical would be the R.I.C.E. protocol – rest, ice, compression, and elevation – to reduce pain and swelling. We might also recommend over-the-counter pain relievers. If symptoms persist or if there’s a visible deformity, we may need to perform a physical examination and X-ray to assess the severity of your injury. Treatment could involve splinting or buddy taping, and surgery might be necessary in severe cases.

Question: I recently had an injury where an object struck the tip of my finger. Now, the tip of my finger is drooping, and I can’t straighten it. Could this be a mallet finger? What are my treatment options at Veda Medical?

Answer: Your symptoms suggest that you might have a mallet finger or an injury to the extensor tendon at the back of the finger. At Veda Medical, the primary treatment method for mallet fingers is the application of a splint to the end joint of the finger. This keeps the finger in an extended position, allowing the tendon to heal. The splint must be worn continuously for several weeks. If your injury involves a large fracture or if the joint is misaligned, surgery might be necessary. After treatment, our hand therapists can guide you through exercises to improve your finger’s strength and range of motion.

Meet Dr. Mohan

Board Certified in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship Trained in Hand, Wrist, and Microsurgery. Dr. Pradeep S. Mohan is a highly-skilled, Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. After completing his General Surgery Residency at Seton Hall University, he attended Yale University and Southern Illinois University to complete fellowships in Hand and Microsurgery and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He has received extensive training in all aspects of Cosmetic Surgery and Non-Surgical Rejuvenation. 

Dr. Mohan takes pride in his work, and his patients love him for his transparency, excellent bedside manner, and ease of explanation of the procedures. He believes in having educated and informed patients. Dr. Mohan is known for his individualized and comprehensive treatment plans and dedication to perfection, resulting in total patent satisfaction. He is here to help you achieve your desired goals.

Contact Us Today!

Are you ready to regain optimal hand and wrist function, alleviate pain, and enhance your quality of life? Look no further than Veda Medical, where our experienced team of hand specialists is dedicated to providing exceptional care and personalized treatment options. We are committed to delivering outstanding outcomes with our expertise in hand and microsurgery, state-of-the-art facilities, and compassionate approach. Contact Veda Medical today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards restored hand and wrist health. Let us be your trusted partner on your journey to improved function, comfort, and a brighter future.

Phone: 210-566-8332/210-361-6617

Email: office@vedamedical.com