How to prepare for a video visit about Trigger Finger

Audience: pediatric

Trigger finger is a condition where a child's finger may catch or lock when bent. It happens when the tendon that helps move the finger gets stuck. This can cause pain, stiffness, or a popping feeling. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help understand the symptoms and suggest next steps. During the visit, the provider will ask questions and may ask to see the finger move. Preparing for the visit helps make the most of the time. This guide explains what to expect, how to get ready, and when to seek urgent care. Remember, this information is educational and not a diagnosis. If your child has severe pain or other serious symptoms, seek in-person care immediately.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Finger is stuck and cannot be moved at all — seek urgent in-person care.
• Severe pain or swelling around the finger — contact healthcare immediately.
• Fever along with finger symptoms — this may indicate infection and needs prompt evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom discussion and assessment.
• Guidance on home care and exercises.
• Determining if in-person care is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations with severe pain or locked finger.
• Physical treatments requiring hands-on care.
• Surgical evaluations and procedures.

What is Trigger Finger in Children?

Trigger finger happens when the tendon that moves a finger becomes irritated and gets stuck. This can make the finger catch or lock when your child tries to bend or straighten it. It may cause discomfort or a clicking sensation. This condition is common in children and often improves with time or simple treatments.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

During the video visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, such as when the finger started catching, if there is pain, and how often it happens. They may ask you to show the finger moving on camera to see how it catches or locks. The provider will discuss possible causes and suggest ways to manage the symptoms or recommend an in-person visit if needed.

How to Prepare for the Video Visit

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When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has severe pain, swelling, redness, fever, or if the finger becomes stuck in one position and cannot move at all, seek urgent medical care. These signs may mean the condition is more serious and needs prompt treatment beyond a video visit.

Managing Trigger Finger at Home

Often, trigger finger in children improves without surgery. Gentle finger exercises, avoiding activities that cause pain, and sometimes splinting may help. Your healthcare provider will guide you on safe home care during or after the visit.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit area for the video call.
• Test your device’s camera and microphone before the visit.
• Have your child ready and nearby to show finger movements.
• Prepare to describe symptoms clearly, including when they started.
• Gather any relevant medical history or notes.
• Write down questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any home care instructions given by the provider.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and note any changes.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended.
• Seek in-person care if red flag symptoms develop.
• Keep a record of any treatments or exercises tried.

FAQs

What causes trigger finger in children?

Trigger finger in children often happens when the tendon that moves the finger becomes irritated or swollen. This can make it harder for the tendon to slide smoothly, causing the finger to catch or lock. The exact cause is not always known but may relate to repetitive use or minor injuries.

Can trigger finger go away on its own?

Yes, many cases of trigger finger in children improve without surgery. Gentle exercises and avoiding activities that cause pain often help. However, it's important to follow your healthcare provider's advice and watch for any worsening symptoms.

When should I take my child to the doctor in person?

If your child's finger becomes stuck and cannot move, if there is severe pain or swelling, or if your child develops a fever along with finger symptoms, you should seek in-person medical care promptly. These signs may indicate a more serious problem.

What treatments might be suggested?

Treatment options may include gentle finger exercises, splinting to limit movement, or in some cases, referral for surgery. The healthcare provider will recommend the best approach based on your child's symptoms.

Is trigger finger painful for children?

Trigger finger can cause discomfort or pain, especially when the finger catches or locks. However, the level of pain varies and some children may have little or no pain.

Sources

1. Trigger Finger — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Trigger Finger (Stenosing Tenosynovitis) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Pediatric Trigger Finger — American Academy of Pediatrics.
4. Trigger Finger in Children: Clinical Features and Treatment — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or emergencies, seek immediate medical attention.