Is trigger finger linked to arthritis and diabetes?

Have you ever wondered whether or not trigger finger is directly related to common health problems such as diabetes and arthritis? In our latest article, we explain the relationship between all three common medical conditions. 

Is trigger finger linked to arthritis and diabetes?

Trigger finger occurs when there is thickening of the tunnel near the palm entering the finger and constriction of the tendons of the hand. This can make it very hard to bend and straighten your fingers or thumb without a click, the so-called trigger. In the later stages of the condition, the tendon can become ‘locked’ down into a bent position, which may require the use of your other hand to unlock it.

There is also evidence to show a higher incidence of trigger finger in those with diabetes. We spoke to one of our expert consultant hand surgeons, Mr G Shyamalan, all about the condition and its connection with arthritis and diabetes.

What's the connection between trigger finger and arthritis?

Trigger finger is a tendon problem and arthritis is a joint cartilage problem but the two conditions can be associated with one another. Rheumatoid arthritis can be linked to trigger finger.

What other conditions is trigger finger linked to?

In cases such as activity-related tendonitis conditions, the tendon can be inflamed and this can be connected also to the joint. Inflammatory conditions such as Rheumatoid can also inflame the tendon sheath and cause a tenosynovitis (inflammation of the lubrication lining around the tendon).

Who else is at risk of this condition?

Patients can have apparent triggering from an abnormally placed tendon in the back of their hand (extensor tendon). They can also present with trigger finger due to the alignment problems of the flexor tendon.

Diabetics also have a higher incidence of trigger finger and thumb. In patients with type 1 diabetes, trigger finger and carpal tunnel syndrome are more common and occasionally carpal tunnel release can cause trigger finger.

What happens if trigger finger is not treated?

They can resolve, continue to trigger and occasionally get locked. If locked then the patient may not be able to fully extend or fully flex the finger presenting with pain. This seems more common in the thumb and occasionally diagnosed as tendon injury or arthritis.

What is the first line of treatment?

The first line of treatment is a steroid injection if the condition fails to improve on its own. If the patient has a locked trigger finger, then steroid injections may be unsuccessful. The success rate of steroid injections is anywhere up to 60% unless the digit is a thumb when the recurrence rates are a little higher.

When is surgery required?

Surgery is required in cases of short-term recurrence following injection or locked trigger fingers. In my experience, the locked trigger thumb eventually requires surgery after a period of non-operative treatment. The outcome of surgery is good and recurrence is very rare. Rehabilitation is quick also with a good return of hand function within a week or two. We encourage mobility immediately following the surgery, just keeping the wound clean and dry.

If you would like to see Mr Shyamalan about any painful hand complaints that you’ve been experiencing recently, you can book an appointment to see him via his Top Doctor’s profile here. Can’t make it in person? Mr Shyamalan is available for a video call using our e-Consultation tool, which can be accessed via his profile too.