It can start with something quite minor: a finger that clicks when you bend it, or catches briefly before straightening. At first, it may not seem like a big deal. But over time, that clicking can become more noticeable, and the finger may eventually get stuck in a bent position.
This is known as trigger finger. While the catching or locking can be uncomfortable and sometimes worrying, it is a recognised condition that can often be managed with non-surgical treatment.
Here is a simple look at what causes trigger finger, who is more likely to develop it, and what you can do if you start noticing the signs.
What Is Trigger Finger?
The tendons that bend your fingers run along the palm side of the hand. They pass through small tunnels that help keep the tendons close to the bones as your fingers move.
Normally, the tendon glides smoothly through these tunnels. With trigger finger, the tendon or the surrounding tissue can become swollen or irritated. This makes it harder for the tendon to move freely through the tunnel.
As the tendon catches, you may feel or hear a click or snap when moving the finger. In some cases, the finger can become stuck in a bent position and may need help from the other hand to straighten.
That catching or snapping movement is where the term “trigger finger” comes from.
What Does the Catching Sensation Mean?
The catching sensation usually means the tendon is not gliding as smoothly as it normally should.
Early symptoms can include stiffness, particularly in the morning, and a clicking or catching feeling when you bend or straighten the finger. You may also notice tenderness around the base of the affected finger, where it meets the palm.
As the condition progresses, some people develop:
- Pain when moving the finger
- Tenderness or a small swollen area at the base of the finger
- Stiffness
- A clicking or snapping sensation
- Difficulty fully straightening or bending the finger
- A finger that becomes stuck in a bent position
The symptoms can sometimes be more noticeable after periods of gripping or repeated hand use.
Who Is More Likely to Develop Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger can affect anyone, but some people have a higher risk. It is more commonly seen in adults over 40 and is more common in women.
Other factors associated with trigger finger include:
- Repeated or forceful gripping
- Activities that involve frequent hand use
- Previous hand injuries
- Diabetes
- Rheumatoid arthritis
This does not mean that repetitive hand use will automatically cause trigger finger. However, if your work, sport or hobbies involve a lot of gripping, it may be worth paying attention to early signs such as stiffness, clicking or tenderness.
If you have diabetes or another health condition associated with trigger finger and develop new symptoms, it is also worth discussing them with your doctor.
Early Management Options
The good news is that treatment does not always involve surgery. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, a healthcare professional may recommend starting with simpler measures.
These can include:
- Reducing aggravating activities: Taking a break from repetitive or forceful gripping can give the irritated area a chance to settle.
- Splinting: A splint may be recommended to limit movement of the affected finger, particularly at night.
- Pain relief: Anti-inflammatory medication may be considered for some people, depending on their individual circumstances.
- Steroid injection: A doctor may recommend an injection around the affected tendon to help reduce inflammation and improve movement.
If symptoms continue despite these approaches, surgery may sometimes be considered. The procedure is designed to release the tight area around the tendon so it can move more freely.
The most suitable option depends on the severity of the symptoms, how long they have been present and how they are affecting your daily activities.
When Should You Seek Help?
You do not necessarily need to worry about an occasional click in your finger. However, it is worth having it assessed if the clicking or catching keeps happening or starts affecting your daily activities.
Consider seeking professional advice if you notice:
- Regular clicking or catching
- Pain or tenderness at the base of the finger
- Swelling around the affected area
- Difficulty bending or straightening the finger
- A finger that becomes stuck in a bent position
- Symptoms that continue despite reducing aggravating activities
A registered physiotherapist can assess your hand, look at how the finger is moving and help guide early management. For people who prefer to be seen at home, a home-based Physiotherapy Clinic can provide an assessment without requiring you to travel to a clinic.
Because trigger finger can also be associated with conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, a doctor may also be able to assess whether there are any underlying factors worth checking.
If you are seeing a physiotherapist in Singapore, make sure they are registered with the relevant national allied health regulator.
Key Takeaways
- Trigger finger happens when a finger tendon has difficulty gliding smoothly through its surrounding tunnel.
- Early symptoms can include morning stiffness, clicking and catching when moving the finger.
- Some people also develop pain, tenderness or swelling at the base of the affected finger.
- Repetitive or forceful gripping, age, previous hand injuries, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis can increase the likelihood of developing trigger finger.
- Early treatment often starts with reducing aggravating activities, splinting and pain management.
- Steroid injections may be considered by a doctor if symptoms continue.
- Surgery may be an option when symptoms do not improve with other approaches.
- A finger that regularly catches, locks or becomes difficult to move is worth having assessed.
Conclusion
Trigger finger can be frustrating, especially when a simple movement suddenly causes a finger to click, catch or lock. However, it is a recognised condition and there are several treatment options available.
The important thing is not to ignore symptoms that keep coming back or gradually become worse. Getting the finger assessed early can help identify what is causing the problem and what type of management may be appropriate.
If your finger has started clicking, catching or becoming stiff, a qualified physiotherapist or doctor can assess it and help you work out the next step.
The information provided in this post is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional or a registered physiotherapist for an assessment of your individual condition.
