Trigger Finger
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.
What is trigger finger?
Trigger finger is a condition that causes your finger or thumb to be stuck in a bent position.
What causes or increases my risk for trigger finger?
Trigger finger is caused by narrowing of the tendon sheath. The tendon sheath is the tunnel that your tendon slides through when you bend or straighten your finger. A tendon is strong tissue that attaches muscle to bone. When the tendon sheath narrows, the tendon does not slide as easily. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, may increase your risk for trigger finger.
What are the 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
How is trigger finger diagnosed and treated?
Your healthcare provider will ask about your health history and examine your finger. Your provider will ask about your signs and symptoms and have you bend and straighten your finger. Any of the following may be needed to treat trigger finger:
- 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.
When should I seek immediate care?
- You cannot move your finger at all.
- Your finger is numb.
When should I call my doctor or hand specialist?
- 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.
Care Agreement
You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. 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.© Copyright Merative 2025 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.