To avoid suffering as you age… Try ‘finger stretching.’

Our fingers are one of the most used body parts throughout the day. This frequent use makes them prone to inflammation and disease. A finger condition called "trigger finger" is particularly common among middle-aged women. What is it?

 

Trigger finger is a condition characterized by inflammation or swelling (enlargement of tissue) in the tendons of the fingers, causing pain and a clicking sound when moving the fingers. It most commonly occurs in the middle and ring fingers, but can also develop in the thumb. If you experience clicking, pain, or stiffness in your fingers, you should suspect trigger finger.

 

In particular, if you feel resistance when bending and then straightening your middle and ring fingers, or if you hear a loud "pop" when you forcefully straighten them, you likely have trigger finger. Symptoms can worsen with repeated hand use.

Trigger finger is particularly common in people who engage in repetitive household tasks, excessive computer typing, or leisure activities like golf or tennis. It can also develop secondary to conditions like diabetes, gout, or rheumatoid arthritis. According to the Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service, the number of patients with trigger finger in Korea has been steadily increasing, reaching 269,178 last year, with women in their 50s and 60s being the most prevalent.

 

Trigger finger can improve with sufficient rest if the discomfort isn't severe. However, if symptoms persist, medication or injections can be administered at a hospital. If the finger still remains flexed, surgery may be considered. This is a simple procedure performed under local anesthesia to widen the tendon tunnel, taking about 10 minutes.

 

To prevent trigger finger, avoid straining your fingers and regularly stretch them. To stretch your fingers, place your palms facing down on your desk and slowly lift your fingers one by one. Repeat this exercise every hour or two during your workday. Soaking your hands in warm water for five to ten minutes before bed also helps relax the muscles and improve blood circulation.

 

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Before summer came, I also diligently did paraffin massage.

I guess it's because it's hot that I can't do it.

 

Fingers are the ones that suffer the most all day long, right?

 

They say it's good to give them a good massage and rub their hands together.