What trigger finger is
The flexor tendons slide through a series of pulleys that keep them close to the bones. In trigger finger, the pulley at the base of the finger (A1 pulley) thickens or the tendon develops a nodule. The tendon catches as it passes through, causing clicking and locking.
Symptoms
- Pain and tenderness at the base of the finger or thumb on the palm.
- A small lump at the base of the finger.
- Stiffness, worse in the morning.
- Clicking or popping when bending the finger.
- The finger locking bent and snapping straight.
- Inability to fully bend or straighten the finger in severe cases.
Which fingers are affected
The thumb, ring finger and middle finger are most commonly affected. More than one finger can be involved, especially in people with diabetes.
See thumb pain.
Causes and risk factors
- Repetitive gripping and use of tools.
- Being over 40 and female.
- Diabetes.
- Rheumatoid arthritis and gout.
- Underactive thyroid.
- After carpal tunnel surgery.
Stages of trigger finger
- Mild: pain and tenderness, no catching.
- Moderate: catching that the person can straighten actively.
- Marked: locking that needs the other hand to straighten.
- Severe: the finger stays locked.
Diagnosis
Trigger finger is diagnosed by examination: the clinician feels the nodule and the catching as the finger moves. Imaging is rarely needed. Ultrasound can confirm the diagnosis or guide injection.
Rest and activity changes
- Reduce repetitive or forceful gripping.
- Use padded gloves or thicker handles.
- Take regular breaks during manual tasks.
- Avoid prolonged use of vibrating tools.
Splinting
A splint that holds the affected finger straight, worn mainly at night for 6 weeks or so, rests the tendon and can reduce catching in mild cases.
Exercises
- Tendon glides: straight hand, hook fist, full fist, flat fist; repeat 10 times.
- Finger extension: gently straighten the finger with the other hand.
- Palm massage: gentle massage over the base of the finger.
- Warm water: move the fingers in warm water to ease morning stiffness.
Exercises should not force the finger through painful locking. See hand cramps.
Steroid injection
A steroid injection into the tendon sheath reduces inflammation and resolves symptoms in many people. It may take a few weeks to work. Some people need a second injection. It is less effective in people with diabetes, and blood sugar may rise for a few days afterwards.
Surgery
Trigger finger release is a minor operation under local anaesthetic in which the thickened pulley is cut so the tendon can glide freely. It is very effective. The hand can usually be used for light tasks within days, with full recovery over a few weeks. A percutaneous needle release is an alternative in some cases.
Trigger thumb in children
Young children can develop a trigger thumb that stays bent at the tip. It is usually painless. Some cases resolve on their own; others are treated with splinting or minor surgery.
Recovery and outlook
Mild cases may settle within weeks. Injections often work within a few weeks. After surgery, stiffness and tenderness at the scar improve over 4 to 6 weeks, and hand therapy helps restore movement.
When to seek help
- A finger locked and unable to straighten.
- Red, hot, swollen finger or fever: seek urgent help.
- Symptoms not improving after a few weeks.
- Several fingers affected or diabetes.
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers.
Key points to remember
- Trigger finger causes catching and locking of a finger or thumb.
- It is linked to repetitive gripping, diabetes and arthritis.
- Splints, exercises and steroid injections often help.
- Surgery is very effective for persistent cases.
Questions about trigger finger
These answers are general information and do not replace an examination or individual medical advice.
What causes trigger finger?
A thickened pulley or swollen tendon catching at the base of the finger.
Can trigger finger go away on its own?
Mild cases sometimes do, with rest and splinting.
What exercises help trigger finger?
Tendon glides and gentle stretching, without forcing locking.
Do steroid injections work?
They help many people, often within a few weeks.
How long is recovery after trigger finger surgery?
Light use within days, full recovery in a few weeks.
Is trigger finger linked to diabetes?
Yes, it is more common and harder to treat in diabetes.
Why is trigger finger worse in the morning?
Tendons are stiffer after rest and swelling builds overnight.
Should I wear a splint at night?
Often yes, to keep the finger straight and rest the tendon.
Can trigger finger affect the thumb?
Yes, trigger thumb is common.
Is trigger finger arthritis?
No, it is a tendon problem, though arthritis increases the risk.
Sources
This guide is for general information and does not replace medical advice. How a problem is diagnosed and treated depends on your examination and medical history. If you think you have an emergency, contact your local emergency services.