WHAT OCCURS IN STENOSING TENOSYNOVITIS?
The disease gradually narrows the tendon passageway beneath pulleys and ligaments and interferes with smooth gliding of the tendon. The resulting increase in friction is accompanied by increasing pain. Literally, the lubricating fluid can thicken or dry out around the tendon. Nodules or thickening of the tendon may appear near the entrance to the tunnel (pulley), much as thread may bunch with repeated attempts to pass it through a small eye of a needle. The enlarged tendon can cause more friction and the pain often worsens. As the disease progresses, the thickened tendon nodule may “pop” out of the tunnel. This is usually very painful and can be the source of apprehension when gripping and grasping with the fingers. At times, the finger “locks,” and it is necessary to straighten the finger with the other hand. When the irregularity becomes too large to pass beneath the pulley or ligament, motion ceases, usually with a digit locked in a bent position. This can cause a contracture (inabi
