Why do Your Fingers Lock Up?
Sometimes your fingers will just lock on you. Here at Easy Orthopedics in Colorado Springs we frequently see those with fingers that end up locking up on them.
When your fingers “lock up,” it can result from various underlying conditions, most commonly due to Trigger Finger or related issues. Here are some possible causes:
1. Trigger Finger (Stenosing Tenosynovitis)
- What happens: The tendon that helps your finger bend gets inflamed or irritated. This inflammation causes the tendon to catch or lock when you try to straighten or bend your finger.
- Symptoms:
- Finger stiffness, especially in the morning.
- A popping or clicking sensation when moving the finger.
- Pain or tenderness at the base of the finger or thumb.
- Finger locks in a bent position and may require effort to straighten.
- Causes:
- Repetitive hand use or gripping.
- Medical conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.
2. Muscle Cramps or Spasms
- What happens: Sudden, involuntary contractions of the hand muscles can temporarily “lock” the fingers.
- Symptoms:
- Tightness or sharp pain in the fingers.
- Temporary loss of mobility.
- Causes:
- Dehydration or electrolyte imbalances (low potassium, calcium, or magnesium).
- Overuse of the hands.
3. Dupuytren’s Contracture
- What happens: A thickening of tissue under the skin in the palm pulls one or more fingers into a bent position over time.
- Symptoms:
- Gradual inability to straighten affected fingers.
- Hard lumps or cords under the skin of the palm.
- Causes:
- Often hereditary.
- More common in people of Northern European descent.
How do I stop my fingers from locking up?
To stop your fingers from locking up, you need to address the underlying cause, which is often related to tendon irritation, inflammation, or other hand issues. Here are steps to manage and prevent finger locking:
1. Rest Your Hand
- Reduce repetitive movements: Avoid overuse or repetitive gripping that can strain the tendons.
- Take breaks: If your work involves constant hand use, pause regularly to stretch and relax your fingers.
2. Apply Ice or Heat
- Ice: Apply a cold pack to reduce swelling and inflammation if your finger feels tender or inflamed.
- Heat: Use a warm compress to improve blood flow and relax stiff tendons or muscles.
3. Perform Finger Stretches and Exercises
- Gentle stretching: Slowly open and close your hand to improve flexibility.
- Tendon gliding exercises:
- Make a fist and then straighten your fingers one by one.
- Flex each finger independently by bending and straightening it.
- Massage: Gently massage the base of the affected finger to release tension.
4. Maintain Proper Hydration and Nutrition
- Stay hydrated to prevent muscle cramps.
- Ensure your diet includes enough magnesium, potassium, and calcium to support muscle and tendon health.
5. Avoid Excessive Strain
- Modify tools or grips: Use ergonomic tools to reduce stress on your fingers.
- Wear gloves with padding during activities that involve vibration or prolonged gripping (e.g., using power tools).
6. Over-the-Counter Remedies
- Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen or naproxen, to reduce inflammation and pain.
7. Seek Medical Treatment if Necessary
If your fingers continue to lock despite home remedies or the condition worsens, consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend:
- Corticosteroid injections: To reduce inflammation in the affected tendon.
- Physical or occupational therapy: To strengthen and stretch the hand muscles and tendons.
- Surgery: In severe cases, a surgical procedure (trigger finger release) may be needed to release the tendon sheath.
Preventing Recurrence
- Maintain hand flexibility: Regular stretching and exercise.
- Use proper technique: When gripping or lifting objects.
- Avoid prolonged pressure: On your hands during activities.
What is the best medicine for trigger finger?
The best medicine for trigger finger depends on the severity of the symptoms and the individual’s medical history. Treatment typically involves reducing inflammation and addressing the underlying tendon irritation. Here are the most commonly used medications:
1. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Pain Relievers
- Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs):
- Examples: Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), Naproxen (Aleve).
- Purpose: Reduce pain and inflammation around the tendon.
- Best for: Mild to moderate discomfort.
2. Corticosteroid Injections
- What it is: A powerful anti-inflammatory medication injected into the tendon sheath.
- Examples: Cortisone, triamcinolone.
- How it works:
- Reduces swelling and allows the tendon to glide more smoothly.
- Can provide relief for weeks to months and, in many cases, resolves symptoms entirely.
- Effectiveness:
- Particularly effective for mild to moderate cases.
- Around 50–90% of patients experience significant improvement.
- Frequency: Typically, only one or two injections are given to avoid weakening the tendon.
3. Topical Anti-Inflammatory Medications
- Examples: Diclofenac gel (Voltaren).
- Purpose: Localized relief for inflammation and mild pain.
- Best for: Those who cannot tolerate oral NSAIDs.
4. Prescription Oral Medications
- If OTC medications are insufficient, doctors may prescribe stronger anti-inflammatory drugs or short-term corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone).
- Purpose: To reduce more severe inflammation systemically.
Other Therapies (Non-Medication)
In many cases, medications are combined with other treatments for better results:
- Physical therapy: Includes stretching exercises and strengthening.
- Surgery: If medication and non-surgical methods fail, surgical release of the tendon sheath is highly effective.
When to Consult a Doctor
- If pain or locking persists despite OTC medication.
- If corticosteroid injections are being considered.
- If there’s no improvement after treatment.
I hope we were able to answer some of your questions about why your fingers may be locking up. If you would like us to evaluate you, and are in the Colorado area, contact us below to make an appointment at Easy Orthopedics.
