Trigger finger, medically termed stenosing tenosynovitis, occurs when the flexor tendon sheath in the palm becomes inflamed and narrowed, causing the affected finger to catch or lock when bent. This constriction typically happens at the A1 pulley, a fibrous tunnel at the base of the finger. A trigger finger release involves cutting the A1 pulley to eliminate the obstruction, allowing the tendon to move freely. This procedure is brief and performed on an outpatient basis.
Immediate Post-Operative Expectations (First Week)
The first seven days focus on managing swelling and initiating gentle movement. Patients should keep the hand elevated above heart level, especially during the first 48 to 72 hours, to minimize post-operative swelling and discomfort. Cold therapy, such as applying ice packs wrapped in a thin cloth, can also be utilized for 10 to 20 minutes at a time to control inflammation.
Initial wound care requires keeping the surgical dressing clean and completely dry for the first two to three days. Once cleared by the surgeon, the patient may shower and gently wash the area with mild soap and water. Full immersion in baths, pools, or hot tubs must be avoided until the incision is fully closed and sutures are removed. Gentle, active range-of-motion exercises, such as finger wiggling and forming a light fist, are strongly encouraged immediately to prevent stiff adhesions.
Key Milestones in the Recovery Timeline
The elimination of the catching or locking sensation is often immediate, though the overall timeline for complete recovery varies. Functional recovery, meaning the ability to perform light daily tasks, is generally fast. Many patients can safely return to driving within a few days to one week, provided they are not taking prescription pain medication and feel comfortable operating the vehicle.
Patients with sedentary or light office jobs can frequently return to work within one to two days, provided they limit repetitive typing and avoid lifting anything heavier than a coffee cup. Incision site tenderness usually improves significantly within the first two weeks. Non-dissolvable sutures are typically removed around 10 to 14 days post-surgery. Full range of motion generally returns within the first two weeks, though stiffness can linger longer.
Returning to heavy gripping, forceful activities, or manual labor requires more time for deeper tissue to heal and regain strength. This milestone is usually reached between four to six weeks, but for very demanding occupations, it can take up to 12 weeks. Complete resolution of localized swelling, scar tenderness, and residual stiffness can take the longest, sometimes requiring three to six months for the hand to feel entirely normal.
Strategies for Restoring Full Hand Function
Maximizing the surgical outcome requires consistent participation in rehabilitation protocols following the initial healing phase. Physical or occupational therapy is frequently recommended to guide the patient through recovery and address any persistent stiffness or weakness. These sessions introduce specialized exercises designed to restore the smooth gliding of the flexor tendons.
Tendon gliding exercises are a common component, involving a sequence of specific hand positions (straight fist, hook fist, and full fist) performed multiple times a day. These movements ensure the newly released tendon does not become restricted by scar tissue as it heals. Once the incision is completely closed, typically a few days after suture removal, scar massage becomes a focus to manage sensitivity and soften the tissue.
Applying firm, circular pressure to the scar tissue multiple times a day helps desensitize the area and prevents the scar from adhering to underlying structures. Adherence to these protocols, including progressive strengthening exercises introduced around weeks four to six, is a determinant of how quickly maximum strength and flexibility are achieved. This active engagement helps ensure the long-term success of the trigger finger release.