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This is a condition that affects one or more of the tendons in the hand, making it difficult to bend the affected finger or thumb.
If the tendon becomes swollen or inflamed, it makes it harder for it to run smoothly through the tendon sheath. It may ‘catch’ and cause a clicking sensation. It most commonly affects the thumb, ring finger or little finger. If the condition deteriorates, your finger may get stuck in a bent position and may then suddenly straighten. Eventually, you may struggle to fully straighten the finger.
Trigger finger is caused by inflammation and swelling of the tendon sheath in the hand. The exact cause is unknown but it is more common in women aged over 40. Other conditions may predispose the development of trigger finger, such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.
It is usually diagnosed by taking a case history and by a physical examination.
It is appropriate to see one of our MSK doctors or SEM doctors for an accurate diagnosis and a steroid injection if appropriate for your condition.
Check out our services pages to find out more about these therapies. Practitioners are trained to treat most conditions but do this in slightly different ways. They work together to find the best treatment most suited to your condition.
Treatment for trigger finger depends on the severity of the symptoms and how long you have had them. Anti-inflammatory medication may help. You may be offered a finger splint to wear at night. Steroid injections are an effective treatment for around 80% of people who have trigger finger.
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