Triggering Thumb: 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 Thumb?
Trigger thumb, or stenosing tenosynovitis, is a common hand condition that can lead to significant hand disability. It happens when the flexor tendon in the thumb becomes irritated and the ligament at the base of the thumb thickens.
This thickening, particularly at the A1 pulley, can cause pain, catching, or a snapping sensation during thumb movement. In severe cases, the thumb might even become locked in a bent position.
Thumb locking or pain making daily tasks difficult? Joint Injection Clinic, with clinics near Kent and Essex, offers targeted treatments to restore your thumb mobility.
Common Causes of Trigger Thumb
Often, the exact cause of trigger thumb is unknown, but it’s frequently linked to repetitive gripping or squeezing hand motions. Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, pseudogout, sarcoidosis, and hypothyroidism are also associated with a higher risk. Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition.
It typically affects people between 40 and 60 years old, with women being more prone than men. Those whose jobs or hobbies involve frequent or intense gripping are also at higher risk. Trigger thumb can affect one or more fingers on either or both hands simultaneously.
In children, the cause is also unknown, but it involves a lump that forms on the tendon. This lump catches on the pulleys as the thumb moves, causing clicking or the thumb to get stuck.
Treatment Options for Trigger Thumb
Treatment aims to eliminate catching or locking and restore full, comfortable movement. Most cases can be managed effectively without surgery using conservative methods. These may include:
If conservative measures don’t work, surgery might be necessary. This procedure, known as trigger finger release or A1 pulley release, is a quick procedure often done with local anaesthesia or sedation. Surgery is generally preferred over splinting for children when conservative methods are ineffective or the condition affects hand use.
While mild cases of trigger thumb might get better on their own, cases with recurring or continuous pain, limited movement, or a constantly bent thumb will require treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent chronic inflammation and permanent changes to the tendon.
Get Help for Trigger Thumb at Joint Injection Clinic
Triggering thumb, often called trigger thumb, can cause pain, stiffness, or locking when you try to bend or straighten your thumb, making simple activities challenging. If these symptoms are interfering with your work, hobbies, or comfort, you don’t have to manage them alone.
At Joint Injection Clinic, our experienced team offers evidence-based treatments to reduce pain, ease thumb locking, and improve hand function.
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.
We use ultrasound-guided assessments for accurate diagnosis, precision-guided injections when needed, and tailored rehabilitation plans to help restore smooth, pain-free thumb movement so you can return to your daily activities confidently.