Trigger Finger: Causes and Effective Treatment Methods

28 Jan, 2026

Have you ever experienced difficulty straightening or bending a finger, accompanied by a clicking or locking sensation? This could be a sign of trigger finger, a condition medically known as stenosing tenosynovitis. Trigger finger occurs when inflammation narrows the space around the tendon sheath, causing the affected finger to get stuck in a bent position before suddenly releasing—like a trigger being pulled.

Trigger Finger: Causes and Effective Treatment Methods

What Causes Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger develops when the flexor tendon, responsible for finger movement, becomes irritated or inflamed. Common causes include:

  • Repetitive Hand Movements – Frequent gripping or repetitive activities (e.g., typing, using tools, or playing instruments) can strain the tendon.
  • Medical Conditions – Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout increase the risk due to inflammation and tendon thickening.
  • Gender & Age – More common in women and individuals aged 40–60.
  • Previous Hand Injuries – Trauma or surgery near the tendon sheath may contribute.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Clicking or popping when moving the finger.
  • Pain at the base of the affected finger (often the thumb or ring finger).
  • Stiffness, especially in the morning.
  • Locking in a bent position that may require manual straightening.

Treatment Options for Trigger Finger

1. Home Remedies & Conservative Treatments

  • Rest & Activity Modification – Avoid repetitive motions to reduce irritation.
  • Ice Packs – Apply for 10–15 minutes to ease swelling.
  • Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers – NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) can alleviate pain and inflammation.
  • Gentle Stretching – Slow finger exercises may improve mobility.

2. Medical Interventions

  • Splinting – Wearing a splint at night keeps the finger extended, allowing the tendon to heal.
  • Steroid Injections – Corticosteroids reduce inflammation and often provide relief for months.
  • Percutaneous Release – A needle is used to release the constricted tendon sheath (performed under local anesthesia).
  • Surgery – For severe cases, a small incision is made to open the tendon sheath, restoring smooth movement.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if:

  • Symptoms persist beyond a few weeks.
  • The finger becomes permanently locked.
  • Pain interferes with daily activities.

Prevention Tips

  • Take breaks during repetitive tasks.
  • Use ergonomic tools to reduce strain.
  • Manage underlying conditions like diabetes or arthritis.

Final Thoughts

Trigger finger is treatable, and early intervention can prevent complications. If home remedies don’t help, consult a doctor for tailored treatments like splinting, injections, or minor procedures.

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