Introduction

Slingshot finger is also known as the plate machine finger. When slingshot finger occurs through a narrow tendon sheath, it is commonly known as tenosynovitis .

Cause

Repeated use and friction of the flexor tendon of the finger cause inflammation and swelling of the tendon sheath, making it difficult to slide the tendon. Over time, it will produce a hardened nodule, which is easy to get stuck in the metacarpophalangeal joint. When the end knuckles can not be fully extended, or resistance when straightening, the pain and the sound of the Tikka, a pistol buckle machine, is called the trigger finger.

Symptom

The trigger refers to the thumb and ring finger most commonly, because of its large amount of activity, but in fact every finger share a chance. The trigger means that the initial symptoms will be very painful at the junction of the fingers and the palm, and the fingers cannot be fully extended. After a while, the pain of the finger will decrease, but the finger cannot straighten properly. With the assistance of other hand, there will be a feeling of jamming during the opening process.

High risk profile

Majority of the patients developed slingshot fingers in their daily lives, but a few are congenital or related to metabolic problems (such as diabetes) and rheumatoid arthritis. Slingshot finger is a civilized disease in modern society due to the excessive and repetitive use of finger movements. It often occurs in factory workers, white-collar workers who use computers for a long time, housewives, gardeners, chefs, etc.

Treatment

Orthopaedics will prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs and recommend suitable therapies. They may also recommend topical injections of anti-inflammatory drugs. If there is no significant effect after treatments, surgery (slingshot finger lysis) can be considered, either traditional open surgery or a minimally invasive procedure.