Trigger Finger

Trigger Finger Overview

Trigger finger occurs when a finger catches or locks as it flexes or straighens. Trigger finger symptoms make it difficult to use the fingers and hand, especially if the finger remains locked. An appointment with a Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates’ (CONA) hand specialist should be made as soon as symptoms present. Delaying treatment makes trigger finger worse.

Symptoms & Causes

Trigger finger symptoms include:

• A catching, locking or popping sensation when the finger moves
• A tender lump
• Pain
• Stiffness

Common trigger finger risk factors include:

• Diabetes
• Occupations that involve forceful or frequent hand and finger use
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Common Treatments:

An early trigger finger diagnosis is very important because nonsurgical treatment options can be used to effectively reduce symptoms and prevent the condition from becoming worse. After a thorough evaluation, a CONA hand specialist may recommend:

• A corticosteroid injection
• A custom made splint
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications
• Rest
• Stretching exercises

Surgery may be recommended to treat severe trigger finger, especially if the finger remains in a locked position. During a trigger finger release, a CONA hand specialist carefully excises the tendon sheath so the tendon has more room to move. Symptoms dramatically decrease shortly if not immediately after the procedure.