Tenosynovitis

Alternative names:

trigger finger

Definition:

Inflammation of the lining of the sheath that surrounds a tendon, the cord that joins muscle to bone or to other muscles.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The synovium is a lining of the protective sheath that covers tendons. Tenosynovitis may involve inflammation of this sheath, as well as the tendon. The cause of the inflammation may be unknown, or it may result from injury, overuse, strain, or excessive exercise. It rarely is caused by infection. The wrists, hands, and shoulder are areas that may be affected, although it may occur at any tendon site. When the wrist is affected, it may cause carpal tunnel syndrome.