Trigger Finger

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Find customized care for hand and finger conditions from the orthopedic specialists at TriHealth Orthopedic & Sports Institute and Beacon Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. We take the time to get to know our patients so we can deliver treatments tailored to their unique needs. Our goal is to reduce pain, maximize mobility and get you back to living the life you love.

Trigger Finger

Trigger finger, or stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition that affects the bands of tissue that hold the tendons of the index finger in place. Inflammation of this tissue and the development of nodules in the tendon can make it difficult to bend or straighten the finger. In some cases, the tendons around the thumb become stiff or swollen and the condition is referred to as trigger thumb.

Trigger finger causes

The exact cause of trigger finger is unknown. It may be the result of prolonged overuse or performing activities that require a tight grip. Gardening, cooking or working with small tools are possible irritants. Other conditions may also exacerbate tendon inflammation, such as:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• De Quervain’s disease
• Diabetes
• Gout
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Trigger finger symptoms

The most common symptoms of trigger finger include:

• Locking of the finger when in a bent position
• Pain and stiffness when bending or straightening the finger
• Popping or catching sensation when trying to straighten the finger
• Raised bump or nodule at the base of the finger on the palm side of the hand

Trigger finger treatment

Trigger finger may respond to conservative treatments that reduce inflammation, including:

• Corticosteroid injections
• Finger and hand stretches
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication
• Physical therapy
• Splinting

You may be a candidate for trigger finger surgery if your symptoms don’t respond to nonsurgical treatments. During a procedure called trigger finger release surgery, the doctor will open up the narrowest part of the inflamed sheath to give the tendon room to move freely.

Trigger finger risk factors

Certain risk factors can increase your chances of developing trigger finger or trigger thumb, including:

• Age—people between the ages of 40 and 50 are more prone to trigger finger.
• Diseases—diabetes, gout and rheumatoid arthritis can increase risk of trigger finger
• Gender—women are more likely than men to develop stenosing tenosynovitis.

Trigger finger prevention

As with most finger and wrist conditions, there is no one way to prevent the onset of an injury or degenerative condition like trigger finger. Resting your hands after prolonged periods of exertion may help avoid soft tissue wear and tear.

Make an appointment

Find relief from trigger finger, trigger thumb and other finger conditions. We offer advanced treatments from experienced orthopedic specialists. Learn more or make an appointment with an orthopedic specialist: Call TriHealth at 513 246 2300 or our orthopedic partner, Beacon Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, at 513 961 HAND or 513 961 4263.