Triggering Fingers: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Reviewed By – Dr. Sameer Gohir
PhD, MSc, PG Cert MSK ultrasound, PG Cert. Non-Medical Prescribing, MCSP, MAPPN
What Is Triggering Fingers?
Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a common hand condition that can significantly impact hand function. It occurs due to irritation and thickening of the sheath surrounding the flexor tendons in the finger.
This thickening, particularly at the A1 pulley located where the finger meets the palm, obstructs the smooth movement of the tendon, leading to pain, catching, or a snapping sensation when you move your finger. In severe cases, the affected finger can become locked in a bent position.
Dealing with finger locking or pain from triggering fingers? Joint Injection Clinic, with clinics near Kent and Essex, offers targeted treatments to restore your hand function.
Common Causes of Triggering Fingers
The exact cause of trigger finger is often unclear, but it is frequently linked to repetitive gripping or squeezing hand motions. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, pseudogout, sarcoidosis, and hypothyroidism, are associated with an increased risk. Some people may also have a genetic predisposition.
Trigger finger is most common in individuals between 40 and 60 years old and affects women more often than men. People whose work or hobbies involve frequent or intense gripping are also at higher risk. Any finger or the thumb can be affected, and it can occur in multiple digits on one or both hands at the same time
Treatment Options for Trigger Finger
The main goal of treating trigger finger is to eliminate catching or locking and restore comfortable, full range of motion. Most cases can be effectively managed without surgery using conservative methods. These include:
If conservative treatments are not successful, surgical intervention may be necessary. This procedure, known as trigger finger release or A1 pulley release, is a quick procedure that can be performed with local anaesthesia or sedation. Surgery is generally preferred for children when conservative methods are ineffective, or the condition affects hand function.
While some mild cases of trigger finger may resolve on their own, cases with recurring or continuous pain, limited mobility, or a chronically bent finger will require treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent chronic inflammation and permanent changes to the tendon.
Get Help for Trigger Finger at Joint Injection Clinic
Triggering fingers, also known as trigger finger, can cause your fingers to catch, lock, or feel painful when you try to straighten them, making daily tasks difficult. If finger stiffness or pain is affecting your work, hobbies, or daily activities, you don’t have to manage it alone.
At Joint Injection Clinic, our experienced team offers personalised, evidence-based care to ease finger locking and restore smooth hand movement.
We welcome patients at all three of our clinics:
Dartford Clinic – ideal for those in Kent and South East London
Address: Unit 30, 1st Floor, The Base Dartford Business Park, Victoria Road, Dartford, DA1 5FS.
Romford Clinic – easily accessible from Essex and Greater London
Address: Room no 8, Alliance Office Space 2-4 Eastern Road, Romford, Essex, RM1 3PJ.
Canterbury Clinic – serving East Kent and surrounding areas
Address: 12-17 Upper Bridge Street, Canterbury, CT1 2NF, United Kingdom.
With ultrasound-guided assessments to accurately identify the affected tendons, and precision-guided injections or tailored rehabilitation plans, we support your recovery with treatments designed to reduce pain and improve finger mobility.