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Conditions Fingers

Everyday Habits That Can Make Trigger Finger Worse

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Everyday Habits That Can Make Trigger Finger Worse

Trigger finger, or stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition that affects the tendons responsible for bending your fingers. It occurs when inflammation narrows the tendon sheath, causing the affected finger to catch, click, or lock when bent. While the condition can be caused by repetitive use, underlying inflammation, or certain medical conditions such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, everyday habits often play a significant role in making symptoms worse.

As a board-certified hand surgeon serving patients throughout Metro Detroit, Dr. Avery Arora frequently sees individuals who unintentionally aggravate their condition through daily activities. Recognizing and modifying these habits can significantly improve comfort and help prevent the need for surgical treatment.

Overuse and Repetitive Gripping 

Frequent gripping, pinching, or squeezing motions place repetitive strain on the flexor tendons. Activities such as gardening, playing musical instruments, typing, or using hand tools can all contribute to tendon irritation. Over time, this can lead to swelling around the tendon sheath, increasing the “catching” sensation associated with trigger finger.

 

Recommendation: Take regular breaks from activities that require prolonged gripping, and when possible, use ergonomically designed tools with cushioned handles to reduce tension on the fingers.

 

Prolonged Smartphone or Tablet Use 

Extended time spent scrolling or texting on smartphones is another overlooked cause of finger strain. The thumb, in particular, is highly susceptible because it is often used for repetitive movements that tighten the flexor tendons.

 

Recommendation: Alternate between hands, use voice commands, and take frequent breaks to stretch your fingers. Small adjustments in daily habits can greatly reduce inflammation and discomfort.

 

Ignoring Early Symptoms 

Trigger finger rarely appears suddenly. It begins with mild stiffness, swelling, or discomfort that gradually progresses to clicking and locking sensations. Many patients delay treatment, assuming the issue will resolve on its own. Unfortunately, early inflammation can progress to more severe tendon restriction if left untreated.

 

Recommendation: If you experience consistent stiffness, tenderness, or clicking in your finger or thumb, consult a hand specialist in the Metro Detroit area as soon as possible. Early treatment often prevents the need for surgical intervention.

 

Sleeping With Fingers Curled 

It is common for people to sleep with their fingers flexed into the palm. However, this position can worsen inflammation by keeping the tendons in a shortened, tense state for several hours. Patients often notice increased stiffness or pain in the morning because of this.

 

Recommendation: A simple nighttime splint can help keep the fingers straight and relieve tension while you sleep. These devices are comfortable and effective in reducing morning stiffness.

 

Overusing the Hand During Recovery

Patients recovering from an episode of trigger finger—or after receiving a steroid injection—sometimes resume full hand activity too quickly. Doing so can aggravate the tendon before it has had time to heal completely.

 

Recommendation: Follow your hand surgeon’s recovery plan closely. Rest, gentle stretching, and adherence to post-treatment guidelines can significantly improve long-term outcomes.

 

Early Trigger Finger Diagnosis and Treatment Are Key 

At Arora Hand Surgery, we focus on identifying the underlying cause of each patient’s pain to create a personalized treatment plan. Most cases of trigger finger can be successfully managed with non-surgical options such as rest, splinting, anti-inflammatory therapy, or corticosteroid injections. If surgery becomes necessary, it is typically a short, outpatient procedure with excellent recovery rates.

As the end-of-year approaches, this is a good time to remember that persistent hand pain or stiffness is not something to ignore. If you are experiencing symptoms of trigger finger or hand discomfort that interferes with your daily life, early evaluation can help prevent long-term complications.

 

Contact Arora Hand Surgery for Trigger Finger Help

If you live in Metro Detroit, Novi, West Bloomfield, Warren, or Howell, Michigan, and are experiencing symptoms of trigger finger or other hand and wrist conditions, we are here to help.

Call Arora Hand Surgery today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Avery Arora — your trusted hand surgeon in Metro Detroit — and take the first step toward restoring healthy hand function.

Categories
Conditions Fingers

Everyday Habits That Can Make Trigger Finger Worse

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Everyday Habits That Can Make Trigger Finger Worse

If you’ve ever noticed your finger catching, locking, or feeling stiff when you try to straighten it, you might be dealing with a condition called trigger finger (medically known as stenosing tenosynovitis). This happens when inflammation narrows the space around the tendon in your finger, making it harder for it to glide smoothly.

While certain health conditions and repetitive motions can increase your risk, many people are surprised to learn that everyday habits can make trigger finger symptoms worse — or slow down recovery if you already have it.

At Arora Hand Surgery, Dr. Avery Arora sees many patients throughout Southeast Michigan who benefit from early diagnosis and adjustments to their daily routine. Here are some common habits to watch out for.

 

Repetitive Gripping or Pinching 

Activities that require you to grip or pinch for extended periods put extra strain on the flexor tendons in your fingers. This can include:

  • Using hand tools
  • Playing certain musical instruments
  • Gardening
  • Using scissors or shears

Tip: When possible, take frequent breaks and use ergonomically designed tools with padded grips.

 

Long Hours on Smartphones or Tablets 

Scrolling, typing, and texting for long periods can aggravate trigger finger, especially if you hold your phone tightly or use your thumb excessively.

Tip: Switch hands, use voice-to-text features, or take regular “screen breaks” to give your hands and fingers a rest.

 

Ignoring Early Symptoms 

One of the most damaging habits is simply waiting too long to seek treatment. In the early stages, trigger finger may cause mild stiffness or occasional locking, but over time, the finger may become permanently bent without proper care.

Tip: If you notice any locking, popping, or persistent stiffness, schedule an appointment with a hand specialist before symptoms progress.

 

Sleeping With Your Fingers Curled 

Many people sleep with their fingers curled into a fist without realizing it. This position can cause the tendons to remain in a shortened state for hours, making morning stiffness worse.

Tip: A lightweight finger splint worn at night can help keep your fingers straight while you sleep.

 

Skipping Stretching or Hand Exercises 

Your fingers benefit from gentle stretching and mobility exercises — especially if your daily activities involve repetitive motion. Not moving your fingers through their full range of motion can lead to increased stiffness.

Tip: Try gentle exercises, like slowly bending and straightening your fingers several times a day. Your hand therapist can recommend the best exercises for you.

 

Overusing the Injured Finger During Recovery 

If you’ve been diagnosed with trigger finger, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions. Continuing to overuse your hand during recovery can delay healing and increase the likelihood of needing more aggressive treatments.

Tip: Follow activity restrictions, use splints as recommended, and attend all follow-up appointments to track your progress.

When to See a Hand Specialist 

Trigger finger can often be treated successfully with non-surgical options like splinting, activity modification, or steroid injections — especially if caught early. However, in severe or long-standing cases, a quick outpatient procedure may be necessary to release the tendon and restore normal movement.

Dr. Avery Arora, a board-certified hand surgeon, has extensive experience diagnosing and treating trigger finger. With four offices conveniently located in Southeast Michigan, including West Bloomfield, Howell, Macomb, and Warren, our team is here to help you find relief and get back to the activities you enjoy.

Don’t wait for your symptoms to worsen. Schedule an appointment with Arora Hand Surgery today to discuss your treatment options and prevent long-term damage.

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General

Finding the Right Hand Surgeon Near Me: Expert Hand Care in Michigan

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arora hand surgery

If you are searching for a “hand surgeon near me,” you may feel overwhelmed by the number of options available on the results page. How do you find the best hand specialist in Michigan to make sure you receive the best care possible? Should you see a general practitioner first, or is it better to go directly to a specialist? And how do you know if your condition even requires a hand doctor? In this blog, we’ll answer these questions, and more, so that you can find expert hand care that is right for you.

Should I See a Hand Specialist or a General Doctor? 

While you can certainly start with a general practitioner, if your symptoms stem from your hands, wrists, or arms, a referral to a hand specialist in Michigan may be necessary. A hand specialist can:

  • Accurately diagnose conditions affecting the hands, wrists, and elbows.
  • Identify underlying causes of pain that may not be immediately obvious.
  • Use advanced medical technology specifically designed for hand and upper extremity issues.
  • Provide targeted treatments, including therapy and surgical solutions, for optimal recovery.

What Should I Look for in a Hand Surgeon? 

Not all hand doctors provide the same level of care. Experience is key when selecting a hand surgeon in Detroit or anywhere in Michigan. A specialist with years of experience is more likely to provide comprehensive care, make accurate diagnoses, and offer effective treatments.

When researching a hand surgeon near you, consider the following:

Experience Matters
  • A hand surgeon with years of specialized experience is more likely to diagnose conditions accurately and recommend the best treatment.
  • Experience also means they have likely treated a wide range of hand-related conditions, from carpal tunnel syndrome to complex hand fractures.
  • Look for surgeons who focus specifically on hand and wrist surgery rather than general orthopedic surgeons.
Patient Reviews and Recommendations
  • Check online reviews on platforms like Google, Healthgrades, or RateMDs to see what past patients say about their experiences.
  • Ask for recommendations from family doctors, physical therapists, or previous patients who had similar conditions.
Doctor’s Credentials and Training
  • Board certification in hand surgery or orthopedic surgery is an important qualification.
  • Consider whether they have fellowship training in hand surgery, which indicates extra specialization.
  • Membership in professional organizations like the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) can be a positive sign.
Use of Modern Equipment & Advanced Treatment Methods
  • Some hand surgeons offer minimally invasive procedures that can reduce recovery time and scarring.
  • Look for clinics that provide ultrasound-guided injections, endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery, and advanced imaging technology.
  • The availability of these tools can improve the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment.
In-House Hand Therapy for Recovery
  • Post-surgical rehabilitation is crucial for a full recovery and regaining hand function.
  • Some hand surgery clinics have onsite certified hand therapists (CHTs) who guide patients through exercises and therapy sessions.
  • This convenience ensures continuity of care and better treatment outcomes.

How to Find the Best Hand Surgeon Near Me 

In addition to online research, ask friends, family, or colleagues if they have visited a hand specialist in Michigan. Personal recommendations can provide valuable insights. Here are some important questions to ask:

  • How quickly were you able to get an appointment?
  • Was the office staff welcoming and helpful?
  • Did the doctor take the time to answer your questions?
  • Did the doctor demonstrate genuine care for your concerns?
  • What was the treatment process like?
  • Did you undergo surgery? If so, what was the experience before and after the procedure?
  • Have follow-up visits been helpful?

Why Choose Arora Hand Surgery? 

After considering all these factors, we hope that Arora Hand Surgery will be at the top of your list – and encourage you to research our website to see why. Led by Dr. Avery Arora, a renowned “Top Doc” hand surgeon in the metro-Detroit area, our team provides expert care for a wide range of hand, wrist, and elbow conditions. With locations across Metro Detroit, including Howell, Macomb, Warren, and West Bloomfield, we make it easy to find a hand surgeon when you need specialized treatment.

If you’re experiencing hand pain or discomfort, don’t wait—schedule an appointment today at Arora Hand Surgery for expert care from a trusted hand specialist in Michigan.

 

Categories
Hands

Yard Work and Gardening Shouldn’t Be Painful. Here’s What’s Happening if You’re Doing Them Wrong.

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Yard Work and Gardening Shouldn’t Be Painful. Here’s What’s Happening if You’re Doing Them Wrong.

There are two types of people in this world: those that look forward to spring and summer yard upkeep and those who dread it like the plague. It probably goes without saying why it’s dreaded by some; the activity itself can be draining and sometimes even leave you in pain. Yard work and gardening shouldn’t be painful, though. Aside from investing into helpful tools such as garden kneeling pads and wireless weedwhackers, here are some other ways to avoid pain during yard work and gardening.

 

The gardening and yard work actions that are causing pain.

When you’re working in the yard and garden, the aches and pains are exacerbated by the bending, crouching, grasping, and repetitive one-handed tasks. The problem with these actions is that you begin doing them incorrectly because the incorrect way feels “easier” – at least, it does in the beginning. Some examples of incorrect ways of movement are:

 

  • Exclusively twisting to the left if you’re right-handed (and vice versa)
  • Raking or digging with only the dominant hand
  • The ever-popular action of lifting heavy weight with the back instead of the legs

 

Ways to prevent gardening and yard work pain.

The trick to completing a weekend’s worth of outdoor upkeep and only feeling the satisfying dull ache of a hard day’s work without the pain is to learn the proper way to use your body and to know your limits. Our very own Dr. Avery Arora, a hand surgeon in the Detroit, Michigan area, says, “Your body will feel so much better when you fix the way you’re working. We encourage you to train the mind to do it correctly, and then you’ll find the body will follow suit.”

Yard Work and Gardening Shouldn’t Be Painful. Here’s What’s Happening if You’re Doing Them Wrong.

 

It’s all about examining the cause of the problem and then stopping it. Some tips that may help reduce future pain include:

 

  • Replace crouching and kneeling with the “armchair” position, pictured above.
  • Take breaks regularly. During your break, walk around and stretch your whole body, including your hands.
  • Engage all muscles by rotating arm and leg work. If you favor working one side of your body, slowly try completing the work with the other side. The non-dominant side may work a little slower, but that’s okay.

 

Gardening and yard work is, without a doubt, a workout. If you consider a three-to-four-hour workout pretty extensive, remember to apply that same thought to your outdoor tasks as well. Work your body’s limit just the way you would in a gym, and then start again another day.

 

Here at Arora Hand Surgery, we care about your health. If you feel as if you’ve suffered a hand, wrist, or elbow injury due to gardening or yard work, visit Dr. Avery Arora at one of his southeast Michigan offices located in West Bloomfield, Warren, Macomb Township, or Howell.

 

 

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Dr. Aroras office from my first call to schedule my appointment was friendly. Walking in the first day, I felt like I was in a nice atmosphere. Dr. Arora was EXCELLENT in taking great care of my hand injury. He was gentle and very understanding to the concerns I had about my hand. His expertise was admirable and I would recommend anyone with an injury to their hand to his office to be under his care. Because of him, I have healed faster than expected and will make an 100% recovery! Thank you Dr.

Jackie S.

I first thought I was going to have to have painful injections or surgery, but Dr. Arora suggested physical therapy may do the trick. I was doubtful, but I agreed to do it. Now, my pain is gone, and with the help of an ergonomic keyboard at work to keep my hands in the correct position, I am virtually pain free. The therapy strengthened my wrists and shoulders, and built more flexibility into my wrists.

Jerry T.

My experience with this doctor was positive from the outset. Dr. Arora was kind and spent a great deal of time with me. Staff was friendly. The office was nice and bright.

Ariel G.

Very friendly and helpful Great staff!!! Doctor Arora was very professional and did great work. I was very happy with everything!

L B.