How Trigger Finger Affects Golf Players & Ways To Prevent It

A trigger finger is a condition in which one of the fingers gets locked in a bent position, limiting movement and resulting in pain and tenderness. 

 

A common reason why one would develop a trigger finger is due to repetitive gripping actions, which is often seen in golf players – putting them at high risk. 

 

In this article, we will be covering more about how trigger finger affects golf players as well as ways to prevent or ease the symptoms. 

 

How does a trigger finger affect golf players?

 

A trigger finger occurs when the protective sheath, which our tendons glide through, becomes narrow, causing constriction around the tendon and resulting in it becoming irritated and swollen. When this happens, the finger cannot straighten and may hinder one’s ability to complete daily tasks. 

 

This can become a chronic condition, especially for golf players as they have to repeatedly grip and swing the golf club with force, causing inflammation in the tendon sheath. The constant friction between the tendon and damaged protective sheath will only further worsen the condition if appropriate treatment is not administered as soon as possible. 

 

Golf players over the age of 40 tend to be more prone to developing a trigger finger, though it can happen to anyone of any age. Women are also more susceptible to the condition. 

 

What are the symptoms of a trigger finger in golf players?

 

Golf players who have developed a trigger finger will experience similar symptoms as with the average person: 

 

• Difficulty bending and straightening the affected finger
• Small lump at the base of the affected finger
• Stiffness in the affected finger
• Pain in the affected finger that may radiate to the hand
• Clicking or snapping sounds when moving the affected finger

 

How to prevent or ease the symptoms of a trigger finger in golf players?

 

It is advisable to go for a trigger finger treatment as soon as you notice symptoms to prevent your condition from worsening. However, there are also some ways to prevent or ease the symptoms before you have the time to seek treatment: 

 

Stretch and rest your fingers

 

Golfing puts a lot of tension on the muscles, tendons and ligaments which is why stretching and resting your fingers is important. Do some simple stretching exercises before, during and after your golf games to help your muscles recover quicker. It is also recommended to take a few days off golfing to rest once you notice any symptoms of a trigger finger.   

 

Adjust your technique

 

You could also try adjusting your grip on the golf club to make sure you are not holding it too tightly. Using tape to adjust the size of your grip may help too.

 

Wear golfing gloves

 

Wearing golfing gloves provides extra padding to protect your hands while improving your grip so you do not feel the need to put too much pressure on your fingers. 

 

If symptoms still persist after making changes to your golfing routines, consider seeking a trigger finger treatment in Singapore to help you regain full movement of the affected finger. 

 

Reach out to Dr Jacqueline, a hand doctor in Singapore at Advanced Hand Centre today to find out about the treatment options available for your condition.