Trigger Finger
Trigger finger gets its name from the way the affected finger or thumb (called trigger thumb) can catch or lock in a bent position.
It then suddenly straightens, much like pulling and releasing a trigger on a firearm.
The term perfectly describes the mechanical nature of the condition, making it easily recognisable for those experiencing it.
What is a trigger finger?
Stenosing tenosynovitis, or trigger finger, occurs when the flexor tendon in your finger or thumb becomes inflamed, leading to pain, stiffness, and impaired motion.
Inflammation within the tendon sheath creates friction, resulting in the finger catching or snapping when moved. In severe cases, the finger may lock entirely.
Commonly affecting the thumb and ring finger, trigger finger is often linked to repetitive hand activities, diabetes, or rheumatoid arthritis.
Trigger Finger Symptoms
The symptoms of trigger finger can develop gradually and vary in severity:
- Pain and Tenderness: Often felt at the finger’s base, especially when pressing or moving it.
- Stiffness: Particularly noticeable in the morning or after inactivity.
- Clicking or Popping: A hallmark sign, caused by the tendon struggling through its sheath.
- Finger Locking: Severe cases may lock the finger in a bent position, requiring manual release.
- Swelling: Around the affected tendon or sheath.
- Reduced Motion: Progression can severely limit finger movement.
Diagnosis and Test
Trigger finger is typically diagnosed through a physical examination.
Doctors check for tenderness, swelling, and locking over the flexor tendon sheath during finger movement tests to diagnose trigger finger.
Additional imaging tests like ultrasound or X-rays are rarely needed unless other conditions, such as arthritis, must be ruled out.
Causes and Risk Factor
- Repetitive Movements: Activities involving frequent gripping or tool use.
- Injuries: Past trauma to the hand can lead to scarred tendons.
- Inflammatory Conditions: Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or gout can inflame tendons.
- Diabetes: Increases risk due to changes in tendon health.
- Age and Gender: More common in individuals aged 40–60 and in women.
- Occupations and Genetics: Jobs involving repetitive hand use and family history also elevate risk.
How is a trigger finger treated?
The good news is that trigger finger is highly treatable, and most individuals see significant improvement with the appropriate care.
Trigger Finger Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Options
- Rest: Reduce activities that stress the hands.
- Ice or Heat Therapy: Manage swelling and relax tendons.
- Splinting: Prevents the finger from triggering.
- NSAIDs: Medications like ibuprofen for short-term relief.
- Cortisone Shots (Steroid Injections): Targeted relief by reducing inflammation.
Medical Treatments
- Physical Therapy: Exercises and stretches to improve flexibility.
Trigger Finger Surgery or Release
If conservative methods fail, trigger finger release surgery may be necessary to free the tendon.
This surgical treatment restores motion and relieves pain, with a relatively quick recovery.
Trigger Finger Exercises
- Straight Finger Stretch: Start with your hand open and fingers straight. Bend each finger into a hook shape, then straighten it again. Repeat 10 times for each finger.
- Tabletop Stretch: Lay your hand flat on a table with fingers extended. Bend your fingers into a tabletop position, hold for 5 seconds, then straighten. Repeat several times.
- Finger Lifts: Place your hand palm-down on a table. Lift each finger one at a time, hold for a few seconds, then lower. Repeat 10–15 times per finger.
- Fist and Release: Make a fist, hold for 3–5 seconds, then slowly release, straightening your fingers fully. Do 10 repetitions, increasing hold time as flexibility improves.
- Massage: Gently massage the base of each finger and tendon area to improve circulation and reduce tension. Use light circular motions for 2–3 minutes.
What happens if the trigger finger is not treated?
- Persistent Pain: Increasing discomfort can impair daily tasks.
- Finger Locking: A bent finger may require manual straightening.
- Reduced Mobility: Loss of flexibility and function.
- Permanent Damage: Chronic inflammation can scar tendons.
- Decreased Hand Function: Hinders fine motor skills.
- Secondary Injuries: Straining other parts of the hand or wrist.
- Emotional Impact: Chronic pain and disability can lead to frustration and stress.
Getting the Right Help for Trigger Finger
Consulting a healthcare provider at the first signs of trigger finger can prevent complications. Early intervention often leads to full recovery, restoring hand strength and flexibility.
Don't delay diagnosis—early care can protect your hand's long-term function and health.
At Prince Court in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, our world-class orthopaedic specialists provide personalised care with cutting-edge treatments to ensure the best outcomes.
Trust your hands to the best—trust Prince Court.
