Trigger Finger

Trigger Finger is a common hand condition that causes stiffness, pain, or a locking sensation when bending or straightening your finger. It most frequently affects the ring finger and thumb—sometimes called a trigger thumb—making everyday tasks uncomfortable or difficult. In some cases, the condition can involve more than one finger.

What Is Trigger Finger?

Trigger Finger occurs when the sheath around a finger tendon becomes inflamed or thickened. This inflammation often affects the flexor tendon sheath, disrupting the smooth motion of the affected tendon, causing the finger to catch, lock, or feel stiff during movement. In more severe cases, the finger can get stuck in a bent position and may suddenly release with a snap—similar to pulling and releasing a trigger.

Common Symptoms of Trigger Finger

Recognizing the trigger finger symptoms early can help prevent the condition from worsening. Key signs include:

• A small lump (nodule) near the base of the finger or thumb
• Finger stiffness, especially in the morning
• A clicking or popping feeling when moving the finger
• Finger getting locked in a bent position, then suddenly straightening
• Pain in the middle part of the affected finger or thumb

Causes and Risk Factors

Certain people are more prone to developing Trigger Finger, including:

• Women (more frequently affected than men)
• Individuals with repetitive hand use (e.g., manual laborers, musicians, office workers)
• People with health conditions such as diabetes, gout, or rheumatoid arthritis

How Is Trigger Finger Diagnosed?

Trigger Finger is typically diagnosed during a physical examination by an orthopaedic specialist. Your doctor may:

• Ask about your symptoms and medical history
• Observe how your fingers move
• Check for tenderness, bumps, or locking when opening or closing your hand

No advanced imaging is usually required unless other conditions are suspected.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Trigger Finger

In many cases, Trigger Finger can be managed with non-surgical treatments, such as:

1. Rest and Activity Modification

Reduce repetitive gripping or hand strain.

2. Splinting

Wearing a finger splint, especially at night, helps rest the tendon and reduce inflammation.

3. Medications

Over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can relieve pain and swelling.

4. Steroid Injections

If symptoms persist, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and restore finger mobility.

When Is Surgery Needed?

If conservative treatments don’t work and your finger remains locked or painful, your doctor may recommend a minor surgical procedure called Trigger Finger release surgery.

What to expect from Trigger Finger Surgery:

• Performed under local anaesthesia
• Small incision made at the base of the affected finger
• Tendon sheath is released to restore smooth movement
• Usually done as day surgery with fast recovery time

Most patients regain full hand function post-surgery, and recurrence is rare.

Can Trigger Finger Be Prevented?

While not always preventable, you can reduce your risk by:

• Avoiding repetitive, forceful hand movements
• Taking breaks during activities that strain your hands
• Managing chronic conditions like diabetes
• Maintaining overall hand and joint health

Book an Appointment at Pantai Hospital Manjung

Early treatment of Trigger Finger can help prevent permanent finger stiffness and improve hand function. At Pantai Hospital Manjung, our experienced orthopaedic specialists provide expert diagnosis and personalized care tailored to your needs.

Need help with hand pain or stiffness?

[Book an appointment] with our team today and take the first step toward pain-free hand movement