Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections for Trigger Finger at Alton Pain Clinic

 

Introduction

Trigger finger, medically referred to as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition that affects the tendons in the hand, leading to pain, stiffness, and a characteristic locking or catching sensation when moving the affected finger. This condition can impact one or multiple fingers, and in some cases, the thumb. While often associated with repetitive strain or underlying health conditions, it can also appear without a clear cause. At Alton Pain Clinic, we provide ultrasound-guided cortisone injections as part of an individualised approach to managing trigger finger.

Anatomy of the Hand and Tendons

To understand trigger finger, it is important to first look at the anatomy of the hand:

  • Flexor tendons run along the palm and are responsible for bending the fingers.
  • These tendons glide smoothly within protective sheaths that act like tunnels, ensuring proper motion.
  • The sheaths are reinforced by fibrous bands called pulleys, which hold the tendons close to the bone.
  • One of the key pulleys is the A1 pulley, located near the base of the finger or thumb.

In trigger finger, this smooth gliding mechanism is disrupted, leading to functional difficulties and discomfort.

Pathology of Trigger Finger

Trigger finger develops when the flexor tendon or its surrounding sheath becomes irritated or inflamed. This irritation can cause:

  • Thickening of the tendon or sheath, making movement restricted.
  • Nodules or swelling along the tendon, which can catch on the pulley.
  • Difficulty in tendon gliding, producing the characteristic locking or triggering.

As the condition progresses, fingers may remain locked in a bent or straightened position, requiring manual effort to release them.

Symptoms

People with trigger finger may experience:

  • A clicking or popping sensation when moving the finger.
  • Stiffness, particularly in the morning.
  • Tenderness or a small lump at the base of the affected finger.
  • Pain when bending or straightening the finger.
  • The finger locking in a bent or straightened position.

These symptoms may vary in severity, with some experiencing mild discomfort while others find finger function significantly limited.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to the development of trigger finger:

  • Repetitive hand use in activities requiring gripping.
  • Underlying conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Age and gender, with middle-aged individuals and women being more commonly affected.
  • Previous hand trauma or surgery, which can increase susceptibility.

Diagnosis

A clinician at Alton Pain Clinic will conduct a detailed clinical assessment, which usually involves:

  • Reviewing symptoms and medical history.
  • Examining finger movement, tenderness, and the presence of nodules.
  • Palpating the base of the affected finger to assess for thickening.

In most cases, imaging is not necessary, but ultrasound may be used to visualise tendon thickening or associated inflammation.

Management Options

Management of trigger finger depends on severity, duration, and the individual’s lifestyle needs. Approaches may include:

  • Activity modification — reducing repetitive gripping movements.
  • Pain relief measures — such as the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory options.
  • Targeted injections — ultrasound-guided cortisone injections.

Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections at Alton Pain Clinic

Cortisone injections are commonly used to help manage the symptoms of trigger finger. At Alton Pain Clinic, injections are performed under ultrasound guidance, allowing clinicians to deliver the medication precisely to the affected tendon sheath.

Ultrasound guidance offers:

  • Accuracy in identifying the exact site of irritation.
  • Visualisation of the tendon, sheath, and surrounding structures.
  • Precision in delivering cortisone where it is needed most.

This targeted approach can enhance comfort during the procedure and reduce the chance of affecting surrounding tissues.

How Cortisone Works — Mechanism of Action

Cortisone is a corticosteroid medication designed to influence the inflammatory process. Its mechanism of action includes:

  1. Reducing local inflammation by limiting the production of substances that trigger swelling.
  2. Decreasing tendon sheath thickening, allowing smoother tendon movement.
  3. Minimising mechanical obstruction, reducing locking and catching sensations.
  4. Providing relief over a variable period, enabling better hand function.

By targeting the source of irritation directly, cortisone supports the restoration of smoother tendon gliding.

Benefits of Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections at Alton Pain Clinic

Choosing ultrasound-guided cortisone injections at Alton Pain Clinic offers several advantages:

  • Clinician expertise in musculoskeletal conditions and image-guided procedures.
  • Real-time imaging, which improves the accuracy of the injection.
  • Minimally invasive approach, performed in an outpatient setting.
  • Personalised care, with treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs.

Why Choose Alton Pain Clinic for Trigger Finger Treatment

At Alton Pain Clinic, we understand how trigger finger can affect daily life, from gripping objects to simple hand movements. Our clinicians specialise in ultrasound-guided injections and provide a careful, individualised approach to help manage symptoms.

We place emphasis on:

  • Precision — using ultrasound to guide every injection.
  • Patient comfort — ensuring a supportive and reassuring environment.
  • Tailored care — adapting management strategies to suit each person.

Conclusion

Trigger finger is a common condition that interferes with hand function and can significantly impact daily activities. With an in-depth understanding of tendon anatomy, pathology, and the role of inflammation, ultrasound-guided cortisone injections at Alton Pain Clinic offer a targeted approach to care. By combining clinical expertise with advanced imaging, our clinic provides precise and considered treatment pathways for individuals experiencing trigger finger.

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