Disclaimer: This is general health information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What is trigger finger?
Trigger finger is a condition where a finger or thumb becomes painful, stiff, or catches when you try to bend or straighten it. It happens when the tendon that moves the finger becomes irritated and cannot glide smoothly through its sheath.
2. What causes trigger finger?
Trigger finger is caused by inflammation and thickening of the tendon or its surrounding sheath. It is more common with repetitive gripping activities, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, after hand overuse, or sometimes with no clear cause.
3. What are the common symptoms of trigger finger?
Symptoms include finger stiffness (often worse in the morning), a clicking or popping sensation, pain at the base of the finger or thumb, and in more severe cases, the finger locking in a bent position before suddenly straightening.
4. Which fingers are most commonly affected?
The thumb, ring finger, and middle finger are most commonly affected, but trigger finger can occur in any finger and sometimes in more than one finger at the same time.
5. How is trigger finger diagnosed?
Trigger finger is usually diagnosed based on your symptoms and a physical examination of the hand. Imaging tests are rarely needed unless another condition is suspected.
6. Can trigger finger get better on its own?
Mild cases may improve with rest, avoiding repetitive gripping, and simple measures. However, symptoms can persist or worsen over time if the underlying inflammation is not addressed.
7. How is trigger finger treated?
Treatment may include activity modification, splinting, pain relief medication, and hand exercises. If symptoms persist, a corticosteroid injection may reduce inflammation and improve movement.
8. When is surgery considered for trigger finger?
Surgery may be considered if symptoms are severe, long-lasting, or not responding to other treatments. It involves releasing the tight tendon sheath to allow smooth finger movement.
9. Is trigger finger related to other health conditions?
Yes. Trigger finger is more common in people with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory conditions. It may also occur after carpal tunnel syndrome.
10. When should I see a doctor?
You should see a doctor if your finger pain, stiffness, or locking affects daily activities, worsens, or does not improve with rest, as early treatment can prevent progression.
