Trigger finger is a common hand condition that causes pain, stiffness and a locking or catching sensation when you bend or straighten a finger.
While any finger can be affected by trigger finger, the ring finger and thumb are most often involved. When it occurs in the thumb, it’s sometimes known as trigger thumb.
Trigger finger develops when the flexor tendon — the tendon that bends your finger — becomes irritated, inflamed or enlarged. This irritation can create a small nodule or cause thickening around the tendon, making it difficult for the tendon to glide smoothly through the pulley system at the base of the finger.
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What Is Trigger Finger?
Each finger has a smooth gliding system that allows the tendon to bend the joints effortlessly. The tendon runs through a series of pulleys — bands of tissue that hold it close to the bone.
When the tendon or its protective lining becomes enlarged, or when the pulley becomes too thick, the tendon can no longer move through the pulley smoothly. This mismatch creates the hallmark catching or locking of trigger finger.
Trigger Thumb
Trigger thumb is the same condition but affects the tendon that bends the thumb. Symptoms include:
- Pain at the base of the thumb
- A tender bump along the tendon
- Clicking or catching when bending the thumb
- Difficulty straightening the thumb without using the other hand
Because the thumb is used for nearly every gripping task, trigger thumb can be especially bothersome.
Trigger Finger Causes
Trigger finger can occur in anyone, but certain factors increase the risk:
- Repetitive gripping or strain
- Underlying conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout
- Tendon inflammation after injury
- Age-related changes in tendon tissue
In many cases, the exact cause is unknown.
Common Symptoms of Trigger Finger
You may be experiencing trigger finger if you notice:
- A tender lump at the base of your finger or thumb
- Pain when bending or straightening your finger
- A catching, popping or locking sensation
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- In more advanced cases, the finger may get “stuck” in a bent position before suddenly releasing
These symptoms may start mild and gradually worsen over time.
Treatment Options for Trigger Finger
Many patients improve with conservative care, especially when the condition is treated early. Nonsurgical options include rest and avoiding activities which agitate and irritate the tendon, splinting, stretching exercises, anti-inflammatory medication and corticosteroid injections.
Trigger Finger Surgery
If nonsurgical treatments do not relieve your symptoms, trigger finger release surgery may be recommended. The goal of surgery is simple: open the tight pulley so the tendon can glide freely again.
During the procedure, the surgeon releases the A1 pulley at the base of the finger. In stubborn cases, thickened tendon lining may also be removed.
Most patients regain normal use of their hand within a few weeks, although some tenderness or stiffness may persist temporarily.
Trigger Finger Recovery
Trigger finger is highly treatable and most people experience excellent results, either with nonsurgical methods or with a quick outpatient procedure. This procedure is often eligible for WALANT. Hand therapy may be recommended before or after treatment to help restore full mobility.
Treat Trigger Finger at OrthoNebraska
Need help with trigger finger in the Omaha area? At OrthoNebraska, we want to make sure that our patients feel understood, safe and confident to take on an appropriate treatment plan. With proper management, we can help you reduce pain levels and improve quality of life.
