Trigger Finger (1 Viewer)

[A2GG]

ever have this ? I have it now. It began within the last couple weeks.
It’s my right index I use to focus the binocular. It has to be from this.
My Nikon MHG doesn’t help with no rubber on the focuser. It takes more effort to turn it.

Trigger finger - Symptoms and causes

Factors that put you at risk of developing trigger finger include:

• Repeated gripping. Occupations and hobbies that involve repetitive hand use and prolonged gripping may increase the risk of trigger finger.
• Certain health problems. People who have diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis are at higher risk of developing trigger finger.
• Your sex. Trigger finger is more common in women.

 

[Binocollector]

I had it in my thumb once from constant scrolling on my phone. But it wasn't permanent damage. I changed the way I use my phone and it went away.
Probably no solution -- but how about using a bino with very easy focusing or even IF for some time?
It might just be inflammation and not permanent damage to the joint.
edit: oh, I should have read the link. I didn't know it meant that the finger is stuck in one position

 

[A2GG]

I had it in my thumb once from constant scrolling on my phone. But it wasn't permanent damage. I changed the way I use my phone and it went away.
Probably no solution -- but how about using a bino with very easy focusing or even IF for some time?
It might just be inflammation and not permanent damage to the joint.
edit: oh, I should have read the link. I didn't know it meant that the finger is stuck in one position

My index finger doesn’t stay stuck thankfully. It sticks when bent but I have to sort of flick it open to get it unstuck. It gets unstuck easily. It’s just that it’s weird and I’m hoping it doesn’t get worse. the main concern is it getting worse and totally stuck in that bent position. I think a focuser that’s easier to turn may help, not totally sure about that.

It’s worse in the mornings just as the articles states. But that’s when I go birding mostly. So far it hasn’t hindered using the binocular.

 

[Foss]

Bummer. I had it in my index finger but it stuck in that position. A splint for a few weeks cleared it up, IIRC. You might switch focusing duties to your middle finger for a while...a bandage on your damaged digit should serve as a reminder. Then take two aspirin and call me in the morning.
~ Foss
P.S. Or borrow an SLC 8x30 with the focus wheel at the objective end?

 

[[email protected]]

Do you have any Viking blood in your family history? You could be confusing Trigger Finger for Dupuytren's Contracture. They are similar and Dupuytren's is very common, especially if you are a Viking. Do you have any lumps on your palms at the base of your fingers? If you do it could be Dupuytren's. You probably want to get it checked out with a Orthopedic Surgeon that specializes in hands. Dupuytren's can progress and cause your entire hand to curl up.

Trigger Finger vs. Dupuytren's Contracture

Trigger finger and Dupuytren’s contracture are both problems that affect the fingers and so one issue is often confused for the other. On the palmar side of each finger, there is a tendon that helps each finger bend toward the palm. Each of these tendons is surrounded by a sheath which is lined...

orthocenter-si.com

 

[A2GG]

Do you have any Viking blood in your family history? You could be confusing Trigger Finger for Dupuytren's Contracture. They are similar and Dupuytren's is very common, especially if you are a Viking. Do you have any lumps on your palms at the base of your fingers? If you do it could be Dupuytren's. You probably want to get it checked out with a Orthopedic Surgeon that specializes in hands. Dupuytren's can progress and cause your entire hand to curl up.

Trigger Finger vs. Dupuytren's Contracture

Trigger finger and Dupuytren’s contracture are both problems that affect the fingers and so one issue is often confused for the other. On the palmar side of each finger, there is a tendon that helps each finger bend toward the palm. Each of these tendons is surrounded by a sheath which is lined...

orthocenter-si.com

thanks for the info. Doesn't look like I have Dupuytren's. I don't have the bump at the base of the palm or the scar like line across the palm and I am able to straighten the finger.

 

[A2GG]

Bummer. I had it in my index finger but it stuck in that position. A splint for a few weeks cleared it up, IIRC. You might switch focusing duties to your middle finger for a while...a bandage on your damaged digit should serve as a reminder. Then take two aspirin and call me in the morning.
~ Foss
P.S. Or borrow an SLC 8x30 with the focus wheel at the objective end?

ugh I hope it never gets stuck.

Or the new SFL 8x30 looks like you could easily use the middle finger to focus.

 

[A2GG]

I wonder also if using a mouse all day contributes or is even the main issue. I use my index finger to scroll the wheel for hours each day.

 

[Richard D]

I wonder also if using a mouse all day contributes or is even the main issue. I use my index finger to scroll the wheel for hours each day.

Mouse sounds more likely - I suspect the proportion of time is significantly greater.

 

[A2GG]

Mouse sounds more likely - I suspect the proportion of time is significantly greater.

yea I think you're right.

 

[Richard D]

yea I think you're right.

Do note I have no medical training ;-)

 

[A2GG]

Do note I have no medical training ;-)

I think it just makes sense that it's probably mostly the mouse; could be a combo of mouse and binocular as well.

 

[Binastro]

I lost most of the use of my hands for two years because of computer use.

The pain specialist and physiotherapist insisted I just stop using the computer.

So I got a voice activated system.
My memory is bad as to the system but I think it was version 11, as my old computer couldn't handle 12 or 13.

Thankfully, this is mostly resolved, but I have to be aware of repetitive strain injury.

The advice I would give is to use mostly a voice activated computer, and just stop using things that are harmful for however long it takes.
It could be months or longer.

The body can heal itself but it takes time and careful planning and patience.

Frankly, anything can wait, birdwatching, computers or anything else.
A person's health is most important.
Of course hobbies contribute to health, so arrange things in a healthy way.
But careful thinking is needed.

If you have a binocular that doesn't need much focus, say a 6x32 or 6.5x32 that might be better until the physical problem is resolved and certainly stop using a mouse if possible.

It may be that a mobile device also causes repetitive strain injury, but I don't have one, so I don't know.

For washing knives and forks etc. I now put them in a glass mug and put some fairy liquid in and leave it for two hours.
Then I thoroughly rinse the glass with the knives, spoons etc. and lay them all out on a paper towel.
After an hour I just put them in the drawer.
So as little repetitive behaviour as possible.

All the best.

Regards,
B.

 

[A2GG]

Hi Binastro,

Thanks for your suggestions. I'm sorry to hear issues with your hands got to be so severe; good you are able to manage it well.

I don't think I could use a voice activated computer due to the nature of my job (too much to explain).

Using a 7x binocular again sounds like it could be helpful.

I'll just have to keep an eye on my index finger and be careful.
If necessary, I'll go to an orthopedic specialist. I'm hoping I won't need to.

 

[Binastro]

It was Nuance Dragon voice activation with a headset.

The mug with the knives and forks is almost filled with water then washing up liquid added.

Reviewing everything one does involving hands allows one to do things differently.

It all adds up to resolving the problem.

Maybe rest periods and switching hands.

Regards,
B.

 

[Canip]

Do note I have no medical training ;-)

….. the sentence usuall continues with …“ask your physician about possible side effects“ …
Lawyers
(I am one so I know what I‘m talking about)

 

[Binocollector]

Using a 7x binocular again sounds like it could be helpful.

Sounds like a good idea. The lower the magnification, the better depth of focus and less messing with the focuser. I barely ever set the focus on my Komz 7x30. For my eyes it's sharp from about 10 meters out once I set it.
A 6x bino will work even better. There are some wonderful vintage 6x25s out there.
A new one that I like would be the APM 6x30.
But my best in that class is an old "skeleton bino", super wide angle (11.5°). The thing is so over-engineered it is the most solid feeling bino I own. The only parts that are not metal or glass are the eye cups and the leatherette inlays on the body.
This one here is the exact same model by the same maker that I have. I also paid about the same (100€).

Selsi Wide Angle Lightweight Binocular 6x25 No.68198 604 ft at 1000 Yards | eBay

This Selsi wide angle lightweight binocular is in good condition. This binocular is No.68198, 6x25, 604 feet at 1000 yards. Comes with carry case in very good condition and does have an adjustable strap on the case for carrying. Great binocular! refJ0201

www.ebay.com

 

[Richard D]

….. the sentence usuall continues with …“ask your physician about possible side effects“ …
Lawyers
(I am one so I know what I‘m talking about)

I'm legally trained (well to degree level) but my medical knowledge is even more suspect

 

[[email protected]]

thanks for the info. Doesn't look like I have Dupuytren's. I don't have the bump at the base of the palm or the scar like line across the palm and I am able to straighten the finger.

You might want to get it checked out. The Viking's called Dupuytren's "Claw Hand" because all your fingers fold in, and a lot of them got it.

 

[[email protected]]

I lost most of the use of my hands for two years because of computer use.

The pain specialist and physiotherapist insisted I just stop using the computer.

So I got a voice activated system.
My memory is bad as to the system but I think it was version 11, as my old computer couldn't handle 12 or 13.

Thankfully, this is mostly resolved, but I have to be aware of repetitive strain injury.

The advice I would give is to use mostly a voice activated computer, and just stop using things that are harmful for however long it takes.
It could be months or longer.

The body can heal itself but it takes time and careful planning and patience.

Frankly, anything can wait, birdwatching, computers or anything else.
A person's health is most important.
Of course hobbies contribute to health, so arrange things in a healthy way.
But careful thinking is needed.

If you have a binocular that doesn't need much focus, say a 6x32 or 6.5x32 that might be better until the physical problem is resolved and certainly stop using a mouse if possible.

It may be that a mobile device also causes repetitive strain injury, but I don't have one, so I don't know.

For washing knives and forks etc. I now put them in a glass mug and put some fairy liquid in and leave it for two hours.
Then I thoroughly rinse the glass with the knives, spoons etc. and lay them all out on a paper towel.
After an hour I just put them in the drawer.
So as little repetitive behaviour as possible.

All the best.

Regards,
B.

That is scary!