trigger thumb post op numbness

[KNicl]

Hello,
4 weeks ago I had surgery to release trigger thumb. One side of my thumb has been numb since then. Is there anything that can be done about this? Thanks.

[JainMD]

Hi,
How are you feeling?
A trigger finger is a manifestation of stenosing tenosynovitis that results in painful catching of the involved flexor tendon as the patient flexes and extends the digit.
As the affected digit is slowly flexed, it snaps or triggers into a flexed position.
Once the digit triggers, extension is difficult and, occasionally, must be obtained manual.
Many require surgical intervention, which is recommended before 4 years of age to prevent permanent contracture of the IP joint.
Surgery is the option if conservative treatment fails.
A small transverse or oblique incision is made in the region of the A1 pulley (just distal to the distal transverse palmar crease) and overlying the affected flexor tendon.
The A1 pulley is incised. After surgical release, the hand is bandaged for several days.
Activity is resumed gradually.
Surgical risks include digital nerve laceration, tendon rupture, infection, and reflex sympathetic dystrophy.
What you are having is one of the complications of surgery. You can start on physiotherapy as this would avoid disuse atrophy of muscle and as nerve injury would take time to heal.
Keep me informed if you have any queries.
Bye.

[pamie265]

Hallo I also have had surgery for trigger thumb and carpal tunnel in the last 5 weeks.  I was reading your response to another fellow sufferer, and wondered if you could tell me what spacific physio you would recommend for me.  I plkay the piano, and type constantly on my laptop, and I use the thumb for these things.  But I guess there is something more specific I could do to try and bring the thumb back to normal.  Incidentally it is only the side and tip of the thumb I cannot feel.  The other side is ok.

Thanks in anticipation of your help.