[Case Study] A 60-Year-Old Breast Cancer Survivor with Trigger Finger

by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul

Ms. Kim, a 60-year-old woman living in Seoul, began experiencing stiffness and catching in her fingers, especially in the mornings. She noticed a "clicking" sensation whenever she tried to extend her middle and ring fingers after flexing them. The symptoms gradually worsened, interfering with her daily tasks.

Several years ago, Ms. Kim underwent surgery for breast cancer and has been taking aromatase inhibitors as part of her hormone therapy to prevent recurrence. Initially dismissing her symptoms as simple joint pain, she sought medical attention when her fingers began locking. She was diagnosed with trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis).

🔍 Hormonal Changes and Trigger Finger: What’s the Connection?

✅ 1. Postmenopausal Hormonal Decline

After menopause, a woman’s estrogen levels drop significantly, leading to decreased elasticity in ligaments, tendons, and connective tissues. This hormonal shift can increase inflammation and make it easier for tendon sheaths to stiffen, causing tendons to "catch" when moving through the A1 pulley in the hand.
This explains why trigger finger is more prevalent among women in their 50s and 60s.

✅ 2. Hormone Therapy in Breast Cancer Patients

Anti-estrogen medications such as Tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors (e.g., Anastrozole) are commonly prescribed after breast cancer surgery. While effective in reducing recurrence, they are known to cause various musculoskeletal side effects, including:

  • Tenosynovitis (inflammation of the tendon sheath)

  • Joint pain and stiffness

  • Morning hand stiffness and catching fingers
    ⟶ These symptoms often mimic or directly cause trigger finger.

✅ 3. Why Hormonal Changes Matter in Trigger Finger

Hormonal FactorPossible Effect
Low estrogen levelsReduced elasticity of tendons and ligaments
Anti-estrogen therapyIncreased inflammation in tendon sheaths
Postmenopausal statusHigher risk of tendon catching and pulley dysfunction

💡 Clinical Perspective

Hand-related symptoms in patients receiving hormone therapy are not uncommon. When symptoms persist or interfere with daily life, it’s essential to consult a physician for proper diagnosis and management.

While steroid injections can be effective, they must be considered carefully—especially in patients with cancer history or weakened immunity. In contrast, treatments like:

  • PDRN injections (for regeneration and anti-inflammation)

  • Myofascial release therapy

  • Gentle hand and wrist stretching
    are relatively safe and effective alternatives.

✨ Takeaway

Trigger finger can be more than just a mechanical issue—it may reflect underlying hormonal changes or side effects of cancer treatment.
For optimal care, a comprehensive and individualized approach is crucial, especially in postmenopausal women or those undergoing hormone therapy.

👍Consultation and Appointment Information

Son PMR & Chiropractic Clinic( 2nd floor, 229-1 Gucheonmyun-Ro, Gangdongu, Seoul, South Korea) 

by  Dr Son MD & DC 
Contact: 02-482-8875 in Seoul( +82-2-482-8875)

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