Trigger Finger Treatment in Puyallup, WA

Trigger finger, medically known as stenosing tenosynovitis, occurs when the tendon that controls finger movement becomes inflamed or irritated. This swelling can cause the tendon to catch or lock as it moves through its protective sheath, making it difficult to straighten the affected finger.

‍Whether your symptoms are mild or advanced, Dr. Iyengar offers both nonsurgical and surgical treatments to restore smooth movement and relieve pain with compassionate, effective care. Common symptoms include stiffness, clicking, or a popping sensation when moving the finger—especially in the morning. In more severe cases, the finger may become stuck in a bent position and require assistance to straighten.

When should I consider treatment?

Trigger finger can affect one or more fingers and tends to develop gradually. If you're experiencing discomfort when gripping, notice your finger locking in place, or find that symptoms are interfering with daily activities, it's time to consider treatment.

Without proper care, the condition can worsen over time and limit hand function.

What are my treatment options?

Conservative Approaches

Mild to moderate cases can often be managed without surgery. Common non-surgical treatments include:

• Splinting: Immobilizing the finger to reduce inflammation.
• Anti-inflammatory medications: To relieve swelling and pain.
• Needle Aponeurotomy: This is a minimally invasive technique used to treat Dupuytren’s disease, a condition where thickened cords form in the palm, causing the fingers to contract. Using a small needle inserted through the skin, the cord is carefully divided in multiple locations to release tension and improve finger extension. This procedure is performed in the office under local anesthesia and requires no incisions or stitches, offering a quicker recovery and less downtime compared to open surgery. It is an effective option for select patients with palpable cords and flexible contractures.

Surgical Treatment

If symptoms persist or recur, a simple outpatient procedure called trigger finger release may be recommended. During this procedure, Dr. Iyengar makes a small incision to release the tight section of the tendon sheath, allowing the tendon to glide freely again.

The surgery is quick, highly effective, and typically allows for rapid return to normal finger function.

Why choose Dr. Iyengar for hand surgery?

Dr. Iyengar’s advanced fellowship in hand and upper extremity surgery ensures you receive expert care for conditions like trigger finger. He uses precise, minimally invasive techniques whenever possible to minimize recovery time and help you regain full use of your hand quickly and safely.

What does recovery look like?

Most patients experience immediate relief from locking or catching following surgery. Light use of the hand is often encouraged within a few days, and most people return to normal activities shortly after.

Minor soreness or swelling may last for a couple of weeks, but full hand function typically returns quickly with minimal downtime. Dr. Iyengar also works closely with trained hand therapists to provide splinting and guided mobilization protocols to ensure optimal outcomes.