Digital flexor tendinitis and tenosynovitis (trigger finger)

[Zipporah Schumaker]

Digital flexor tendinitis and tenosynovitis are inflammation, sometimes with subsequent fibrosis, of tendons and tendon sheaths of the digits.
(See also Overview and Evaluation of Hand Disorders.)
Digital flexor tendinitis and tenosynovitis are idiopathic but are common among patients with rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes mellitus. Repetitive use of the hands (as may occur when using heavy gardening shears) may contribute. In diabetes, they often coexist with carpal tunnel syndrome and occasionally with fibrosis of the palmar fascia. Pathologic changes begin with a thickening or nodule within the tendon; when located at the site of the tight first annular pulley, the thickening or nodule blocks smooth extension or flexion of the finger. The finger may lock in flexion, or “trigger,” suddenly extending with a snap.