What is A1 pulley trigger finger?

The pulley at the base of the finger is called the “A1 pulley.” This is the pulley that is most often involved in trigger finger. The tendon sheath attaches to the finger bones and keeps the flexor tendon in place as it moves. The A1 pulley is near the opening of the tendon sheath.

How do you release an A1 pulley?

Surgery to correct Trigger Finger is called an A1 pulley release. This involves a small incision in the palm to access and release the A1 pulley. The A1 pulley is cut, allowing the flexor tendons to move through the pulley/tendon sheath without getting stuck.

How do you release a trigger finger?

There are two types:

1. Percutaneous release. The doctor numbs the palm of your hand and inserts a needle into the area around the affected tendon.
2. Tenolysis or trigger finger release surgery. The doctor makes a small cut at the base of the finger and opens the sheath around the tendon.

How long does it take to recover from trigger finger release surgery?

It will probably take about 6 weeks for your finger to heal completely. After it heals, your finger may move easily without pain. How soon you can return to work depends on your job. If you can do your job without using the hand, you may be able to go back 1 or 2 days after surgery.

Is massage good for trigger finger?

It’s also recommended that you practice self-massage to help treat trigger finger. This can be done for a few minutes at a time throughout the day. It’s especially beneficial for you to massage the affected finger before and after these exercises.

What is the best thing to do for a trigger finger?

Treatment

• Rest. Avoid activities that require repetitive gripping, repeated grasping or the prolonged use of vibrating hand-held machinery until your symptoms improve.
• A splint. Your doctor may have you wear a splint at night to keep the affected finger in an extended position for up to six weeks.
• Stretching exercises.

Does each finger have an A1 pulley?

There are five flexor tendon pulleys in the fingers that are named A1-A5, and consists of annular ligament pulleys, and cruciate pulleys i.e. The flexor tendon pulley system. The thumb only has two pulleys that are described as A1 and A2.

Is A1 pulley release the same as trigger finger?

Trigger Finger Release Surgery Preparation Trigger finger release surgery, also known as an A1 Pulley Release, may be performed at a hospital, surgery center, or possibly in your surgeon’s office. It is typically an outpatient procedure, so you will be allowed home after your surgery.

Is trigger finger a serious condition?

In most cases, trigger finger is a nuisance rather than a serious condition. However, if it is not treated, the affected finger or thumb may become permanently stuck in a bent position or, less commonly, in a straightened position. This can make carrying out everyday tasks difficult.

Do you need physical therapy after trigger finger surgery?

It is important to begin finger exercises after surgery to avoid finger stiffness. Exercises should be started the day of surgery and be done throughout the day, and are especially important during the first 4 weeks after surgery. Do the exercises 3-4 times a day, for 5-10 repetitions each, for 3-4 weeks after surgery.

Is ice or heat better for trigger finger?

Heat or ice: Heat or ice can be applied to reduce swelling. Placing your hand in warm water several times throughout the day can also relax the tendons and muscles in your fingers and hand. Exercise: Gentle exercises may help decrease stiffness and improve range of motion.

How do I strengthen my finger pulley?

Begin gentle range-of-motion exercises—bend the finger until it feels tight, hold for 2–3 seconds, relax, and repeat 10 times for several sessions each day. Now perform the same exercise, only straighten the finger. Avoid pushing through pain.