Krisha Hospital

Teleconsultation @ ₹600

What is a trigger finger? Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

  1. Home
  2. /
  3. Trigger Finger
  4. /
  5. What is a trigger...
What is a trigger finger:Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment options

Have you ever experienced a painful clicking or locking sensation in your fingers when trying to move them? This condition is known as trigger finger (medically called stenosing tenosynovitis), a common hand disorder that affects finger movement. If left untreated, it can lead to severe stiffness and discomfort. In this blog, we will explore what trigger finger is, its types, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, risk factors, prevention, and the best treatment options available.

What is a trigger finger?

Trigger finger is a condition that affects the tendons in the fingers or thumb, causing them to lock in a bent position. It occurs when the tendon sheath (the protective covering of the tendon) becomes inflamed, making it difficult for the tendon to glide smoothly. When this happens, the affected finger may become stuck in a bent position before suddenly snapping straight, like pulling and releasing a trigger—hence the name trigger finger.

Types of trigger finger

Trigger Finger can vary in severity and is classified into different types based on symptoms and progression.

Grade 1 (Mild)

  • Occasional discomfort or stiffness, especially in the morning.
  • No visible locking or clicking.
  • Finger movement remains smooth.

Grade 2 (Moderate)

  • Frequent clicking or snapping sensation when bending the finger.
  • Mild pain or tenderness at the base of the affected finger.
  • Finger may briefly get stuck but releases on its own.

Grade 3 (Severe)

  • Finger frequently locks in a bent position and requires the other hand to straighten it.
  • Significant pain and swelling.
  • Daily activities become difficult.

Grade 4 (Chronic & Advanced)

  • Fingers remain locked in a bent position and cannot be straightened without medical intervention.
  • Severe pain, inflammation, and loss of function.
  • Often requires surgical treatment.

Understanding these stages helps in determining the right course of treatment. Early intervention can prevent progression to severe cases.

Symptoms of trigger finger

The symptoms of trigger finger can range from mild to severe and may worsen over time if left untreated. Common signs include:

Symptoms of trigger finger
  • Finger stiffness: Especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

  • Pain or Tenderness: Felt at the base of the affected finger or thumb.

  • Clicking or Popping sensation: When trying to bend or straighten the finger.

  • Finger locking: The finger may get stuck in a bent position and suddenly snap back.

  • Lump formation: A small, painful bump may form at the base of the affected finger.

Causes of trigger finger

Trigger finger occurs due to inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath, which restricts the smooth movement of the tendon. Some common causes and risk factors include:

Causes of trigger finger
  • Repetitive hand movements: Activities that involve continuous gripping, such as using tools, playing musical instruments, or typing.

  • Medical conditions: People with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout are at a higher risk.

  • Age & Gender: More common in women over the age of 40.

  • Previous hand injuries: Any trauma or strain to the hand can increase the risk.

  • Prolonged gripping: Holding objects tightly for extended periods can trigger inflammation.

Risk factors for trigger finger

Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing trigger finger, including:

  • Diabetes & Rheumatoid arthritis: Chronic conditions that cause inflammation.

  • Occupational hazards: Jobs requiring repetitive gripping or hand strain.

  • Age factor: More common in individuals over 40.

  • Gender: Women are at higher risk compared to men.

  • Hand trauma: Previous injuries or surgeries affecting tendon function.

Diagnosis of trigger finger

A doctor will diagnose trigger finger based on:

Diagnosis of trigger finger
  • Medical history: Understanding symptoms, medical conditions, and daily activities.

  • Physical examination: Checking for tenderness, swelling, clicking, or locking of the finger.

  • Range of motion tests: Assessing finger flexibility and movement restrictions.

  • Imaging tests: Though not always necessary, ultrasound or X-rays may be used to rule out other conditions.

Treatment options for trigger finger

Non-surgical treatments (For mild to moderate cases)

Non-surgical treatments for trigger finger
  • Rest & Activity modification: Avoid repetitive hand movements that worsen the condition. However, complete rest may lead to stiffness and muscle weakness over time.

  • Splinting: Wearing a splint keeps the finger in a straight position to reduce strain. The downside is that prolonged splinting can cause discomfort and restrict hand function.

  • Stretching exercises: Gentle hand and finger exercises can improve flexibility and reduce stiffness. However, if not done correctly, they may worsen the condition.

  • Anti-inflammatory medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen) help reduce inflammation, but prolonged use may lead to stomach issues and other side effects.

  • Steroid injections: Corticosteroid injections reduce swelling and relieve pain effectively, but repeated injections can weaken tendons over time and may not work for everyone.

Note: While non-surgical treatments provide temporary relief, they do not always address the root cause of trigger finger. If symptoms persist or worsen, surgical intervention may be the best option.

Surgical treatment (For severe cases)

If non-surgical treatments fail, surgery may be necessary to release the affected tendon sheath.

Surgical treatments for trigger finger
  • Percutaneous release: A minimally invasive procedure where a needle is used to release the tightened tendon sheath. This method is effective, requires only a small puncture, and has a shorter recovery time. However, it requires expertise to avoid nerve damage and is not suitable for all cases.

  • Trigger finger release surgery: A small incision is made at the base of the affected finger, and the tendon sheath is carefully widened to allow smooth tendon movement. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and has a high success rate. Recovery is generally quick, with most patients regaining full function within a few weeks. Post-surgery, physical therapy may be recommended to restore hand strength and flexibility.

When should you see a doctor?

Consult a hand specialist if:

  • Your finger is frequently locking or getting stuck.
  • The pain is severe and interferes with daily activities.
  • Home remedies and medications do not provide relief.
  • You notice swelling, tenderness, or a lump at the base of the finger.

Prevention of trigger finger

Although not all cases can be prevented, certain lifestyle modifications can help reduce the risk:

  • Avoid repetitive hand strain: Take frequent breaks from tasks requiring prolonged gripping.

  • Perform hand exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises can improve tendon flexibility.

  • Maintain good hand posture: Use ergonomic tools and techniques to minimize strain.

  • Manage underlying conditions: Control diabetes and arthritis to reduce inflammation.

  • Use proper hand support: Wearing a splint or brace when needed can help prevent excessive strain.

Conclusion

Trigger finger can be painful and inconvenient, but early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term stiffness and discomfort. While non-surgical treatments can provide temporary relief, they do not always offer a permanent solution. For lasting results, surgical intervention may be the best option. 

If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t ignore them—consult trigger finger specialist Dr. Karn Maheshwari at Krisha Hand Hospital for expert care and guidance.

💡 Stay informed, stay healthy! 💡

Author bio

Dr. Karn Maheshwari is the founder of Krisha Hand Hospital, Ahmedabad, established in 2016. He is the only fnb-qualified hand surgeon across Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh.

With MS and DNB in orthopedics, Dr. Maheshwari specializes in treating a wide range of hand and wrist conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome, sports hand injuries, orthopedic hand surgery, ganglion cysts, mangled hand injuries, congenital hand differences, brachial plexus palsy, cerebral palsy & spastic hand, hand tendinopathy, hand microsurgery, hand swelling, hand transplants, hand reimplantation, rheumatoid hand deformities, and peripheral nerve injuries & compressive neuropathies.

Dr. Maheshwari’s unmatched expertise and patient-centric approach ensure world-class treatment, advanced surgical solutions, and optimal recovery for patients with complex hand and wrist conditions.

FAQs

Mild cases may improve with rest and stretching, but persistent cases require treatment.

If untreated, it can become a long-term issue, leading to stiffness and limited mobility.

Applying heat or ice, performing gentle stretches, and using splints may provide relief.

Reducing repetitive hand movements, using ergonomic tools, and managing medical conditions can help prevent it.

The surgery is generally safe, but potential risks include infection, nerve damage, and stiffness.

Most patients recover within a few weeks with proper care and therapy.

Yes, individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing trigger finger.

Yes, it can affect more than one finger and even both hands.

It may lead to permanent stiffness and difficulty in finger movement.

Yes, therapy can improve mobility and reduce stiffness.

Yes, people in professions involving repetitive gripping, like musicians, mechanics, and assembly line workers, are at higher risk.

Some people find relief with turmeric (anti-inflammatory), massage therapy, and essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus.

A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fish, nuts, and leafy greens may help reduce symptoms.

No, complete immobilization can cause stiffness. Instead, modify activities and perform gentle exercises.

While they are different conditions, trigger finger and carpal tunnel syndrome can occur together. Carpal tunnel syndrome affects the median nerve, causing numbness and tingling, while trigger finger involves tendon inflammation, leading to finger locking. Both conditions are more common in individuals with repetitive hand use, diabetes, or arthritis.

Indirectly, yes—stress can lead to muscle tension and inflammation, worsening symptoms.

Hand specialists, orthopedic surgeons, and physiotherapists usually handle its diagnosis and treatment.

Many cases improve with non-surgical treatments, but severe cases may require surgical intervention.

Padded or compression gloves may provide support and reduce strain on the fingers.

Recent Post