Hi Figlover
It been my experience a fig tree grown in a pot that has not reached its potential height will grow vertically and stragly quickly if not properly pruned.
Here is what i do and others im sure have there methods that work as well.
I grow most mine in tree form (1 main trunk) i let it grow between 4 to 6 feet tall then nip the main trunk this usually occurs in its first year for me. Second season it grows horizontally and thats when i start to manage those branches any inward growing branches i mostly cut them as i try to keep middle of tree open.The main trunk will send stems out its side on the tip and i cut them as well, the tree now concentrates its energy more for horizontal growth. As the leaves develop near the ends of branches i wait till i get about 5 of them then cut after that and tree will tend to slow vegatative growth and push its energy into the fruit which helps it develop and ripen in our climate. When tree is dormant i cut any wood that is of no use inward branches, branches growing upwards that are unsightly to me,suckers, lower growing branches and any that interfere or would otherwise poke me when i move plant around with the handtruck. It sounds like your plant has just concentrated on vegative growth mostly because of trimming needs dont be afraid to cut branches its a tree by nature and will grow back as they can take pruning very well.
Hope this give you some ideas
Best Helath
Martin

Thank you, dieseler,for your suggestions and I will most certainly proceed with caution as you recommend.