Trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis) is a condition where one of your fingers gets stuck in a bent position. It may straighten with a snap — like a trigger being pulled and released. The condition is caused by narrowing of the sheath that surrounds the tendon in the affected finger.
Dr. Dashe shows why the finger locks, and what a release cuts. It is not the tendon. (1 min 45 s)
Repeated gripping: Occupations and hobbies that involve repetitive hand use and prolonged gripping may increase your risk.
Certain health conditions: People who have diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis are at higher risk of developing trigger finger.
Gender and age: Trigger finger is more common in women and in anyone over 40.
Finger stiffness, particularly in the morning
A popping or clicking sensation as you move your finger
Tenderness or a bump (nodule) in the palm at the base of the affected finger
Finger catching or locking in a bent position, which suddenly pops straight
Rest and splinting — avoiding activities that require repetitive gripping
Steroid injections — effective in most people, though the problem may recur
Surgery — opens the pulley at the base of the finger so the tendon can move freely
If it keeps catching, one option is Thread Trigger Finger Release, a no-incision release of the A1 pulley done in the office under local anesthesia.
| Rest and splinting | Steroid injection | Open release | Thread release | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| What it does | Avoids the repetitive gripping that irritates the tendon | Calms the swelling that makes the finger catch | Opens the pulley at the base of the finger through a palm incision | Opens the same pulley through needle entry points |
| Incision and stitches | None | None | Small incision, stitches | No incision, no stitches |
| Where it is done | At home | In the office | Outpatient procedure room | In the office, local anesthesia |
Most people recover completely with treatment
Steroid injections often show improvement within days to weeks
Surgery typically provides immediate relief with full recovery in weeks to months
If your finger is catching, locking, or causing pain, don't wait for it to get worse. Early treatment can prevent the need for surgery.
Trigger finger occurs when inflammation narrows the space around the tendon, making it difficult for the tendon to glide smoothly. This causes catching, locking, or a popping sensation when you try to straighten your finger.
Trigger finger most commonly affects the ring finger and thumb, though it can occur in any finger. It's more common in women and people with diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.
Mild trigger finger may improve with rest and splinting, especially if caught early. However, most cases require treatment such as cortisone injections or surgery to fully resolve the catching and locking symptoms.
Most patients can move their finger immediately after surgery and return to light activities within days. Full recovery typically takes 4-6 weeks, with most patients regaining normal hand function without restrictions.
Don't wait weeks to see a specialist.