Trigger Finger: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Swelling may also occur, making it harder for the tendon to move smoothly within the sheath. In more advanced cases, the finger may lock in a bent position and be difficult to straighten. In some  instances, the finger can only be moved with assistance or considerable effort, causing significant discomfort. One of the earliest symptoms is stiffness, particularly in the morning. The affected finger may feel tight or difficult to move, especially when attempting to bend or straighten it.
Surgery is rarely necessary and is typically only recommended if other treatments fail. It's estimated that corticosteroid injections are an effective treatment for 50 to 70% of people with trigger finger. However, they're generally less effective in people with certain underlying health conditions, such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. However it is a condition that is more likely to affect women than men and is more common in people in their 40s and 50s.

The condition is not only painful but can also significantly disrupt your daily activities. The purpose of this guide is to provide an in-depth, SEO-optimized look at trigger finger treatment, ensuring you have all the information needed to make informed decisions about your health. Dupuytren’s contracture, also known as Dupuytren’s disease, seems similar to trigger finger but has a different cause. In this condition, the fingers naturally curl toward the palm and can get stuck in that position. The condition can be caused by repetitive hand motions, especially those required by manual assembly line work.
The pathophysiology is enlargement of the flexor tendon and the A1 pulley of  the tendon sheath. While often referred to as a type of stenosing tenosynovitis the pathology is mucoid degeneration. Mucoid degeneration is when fibrous tissue, such as tendon, has less organized collagen, more abundant extracellular matrix, and changes in the cells to act and look more like cartilage cells . Diagnosis is typically based on symptoms and signs after excluding other possible causes. Before your surgery your surgeon will inject the local anaesthetic to numb the skin. This is usually done in the operating theatre, but some surgeons may inject this on the ward.

A splint keeps the finger straight and extended without exerting undue pressure on the underlying tendon, thus giving it plenty of time to heal. Doctors usually recommend wearing a splint for about 6 weeks, particularly while sleeping when you are unaware of your finger placement. Rest the finger as much as possible until the swelling subsides and it becomes more flexible. Any undue exertion can worsen the damage, so you must give your finger enough time (4–6 weeks) to heal before you start using it for repeated gripping or grasping. The appointments after this will depend on your recovery at the initial review. You may be referred to a hand therapist for finger movement and strengthening exercises.
Dislocated fingers typically impact the PIP joint and demand prompt care to prevent stiffness later. Even minor injuries, like high-pressure injection from grease guns, could seem harmless but may lead to severe consequences unless untreated. With her precision, knowledge, and friendly approach, Fern provides expert care designed to keep her patients pain-free and active. Book an appointment today and take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable feet. Fern also has a strong interest in biomechanics, assessing and treating foot and ankle pain caused by poor alignment, gait issues, and musculoskeletal imbalances. She works with patients to relieve discomfort, improve mobility, and prevent long-term problems through tailored treatment plans, including orthotics and rehabilitation exercises.
People may choose operative treatment primarily as it has a more predictable outcome. Surgery is a relatively minor operation which is performed under local anaesthesia as a day case. A small incision is made on the palm of the hand at the base of the finger or thumb where the surgeon will release the narrowing. This relieves the constriction of the tendon as it passes through the sheath and stops the triggering. It is a relatively minor procedure taking approximately 10 minutes on average. Following surgery a light dressing is applied to protect the wound but allow early active movement of the fingers and thumb.

Most people can return to their normal activities within 2-3 weeks of the surgery, although some people may restrict heavier activities for 4-6 weeks. Our Consultant Plastic Surgeons skin tags removal leeds have carried out over27,500 hand and wrist procedures between them. All procedures are carried out by a Consultant Plastic Surgeon with expertise in hand and wrist procedures.
You can drive when your wounds are fully healed and you feel you can safely grip the steering wheel with both hands to control the car. Tendon issues – in complex cases the tendon that moves the finger may be cut or the tendon may appear more prominent when attempting to bend the finger (known as ‘bowstringing’). In these cases we will discuss the price before you book in or make a deposit.

By implementing these prevention tips, you can reduce the risk of recurrence and support the long-term success of your trigger finger treatment. By recognizing these symptoms and causes early on, you can take steps toward effective trigger finger treatment. This site is for educational purposes only; no information is intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The information is produced and reviewed by over 200 medical professionals with the goal of providing trusted, uniquely informative information for people with painful health conditions.
With thousands of happy patients, we are Tyneside and Yorkshire’s largest skin clinics. We have two state-of-the-art clinics, in Guiseley in Leeds and close to Bradford in West Yorkshire, and in Gateshead Team Valley close to Newcastle, in Tyne and Wear. Skin Surgery Clinic’s mission is to offer you a safe and effective solution for all of your skin concerns in a professional and clinical environment. Find out if you are suitable for treatment in our Leeds and Newcastle clinics with our completely free online consultation.
We’re happy to answer any questions and guide you through the UKSKIN journey. Dr Suggett graduated from Oxford University in Medicine, and has been a Consultant for more than 15 years, with extensive experience in general and colorectal surgery. Dr Andreas Shiatis, based at Harley Street, specialises in skin lesion removal and VASER liposuction, with a particular focus on gynecomastia. Clinically, a discrete nodule may be palpated along the line of the flexor tendon at the level of the A1, or more rarely, the A3 pulley.

This can lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers. Now, let's explore the top five conditions that hand and wrist surgery can effectively treat and how these procedures can transform lives. Massaging the involved area of the palm gently followed by a cold pack application can be helpful.
You may be aware of tugging and pulling sensations but this should not hurt. If you have a personal music player you are welcome to listen to this during the operation. You will receive a letter with the details of the date and time of your operation. This will provide you with information of what to do and expect during your treatment. Some hospitals now routinely have pre-operative assessment clinics where you will see a nurse and any medical issues explored. You will also be given advice on what post-operative painkillers is likely to be required, which is usually paracetamol.