Trigger Finger
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
AMBULATORY CARE:
Trigger finger
is a condition that causes your finger or thumb to be stuck in a bent position.
Common signs and symptoms of trigger finger:
- Clicking, snapping, or popping noise when you straighten your finger
- Pain
- Swelling and stiffness
- A bump at the base of your finger
Seek care immediately if:
- You cannot move your finger at all.
- Your finger is numb.
Call your doctor or hand specialist if:
- Your symptoms do not go away or return, even after treatment.
- You have trouble doing your daily activities because of the pain, swelling, or stiffness.
- You have more trouble moving your finger.
- Your finger is tingling.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Treatment
may include any of the following:
- Medicines:
- NSAIDs help decrease swelling and pain or fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Steroids help decrease inflammation. This medicine is given as a shot into your finger. You may need more than 1 injection.
- A splint may be needed for up to 6 weeks to keep your finger straight. This will help your finger joints rest and prevent you from bending your finger while you sleep.
- Physical therapy is used to teach you exercises to help improve movement and strength, and to decrease pain.
- Tendon release is surgery to cut open a small piece of the tendon sheath. This helps the tendon slide smoothly. Your provider may do this through an incision or with a needle.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Follow up with your doctor or hand specialist as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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