Trigger finger is a condition also known as tenosing tenosynovitis where one or more of the hand’s tendons become inflamed and swell. Your finger may get stuck in a bent position and straightening back would “snap” the finger like a trigger.

Risk Factors

• Strenuous repetitive motions, forceful use of the fingers and/or thumbs

• History of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and diabetes

Symptoms

• Finger stiffness especially in morning time

• Swelling or tender lump in the palm at the base of the affected finger

• Finger locking in bent position, can pop straight or unable to 

• Finger snapping or popping when moving fingers

Treatment

Treatment can be symptomatic using Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or the symptoms can get better on its own while sparing from strenuous repeatedly using your fingers would be needed. A splint may be used to help at night to get your fingers relaxed and gentle exercise may help.

If pain and stiffness persist, a steroid injection can be administered to the affected area. Surgery with a small cut could also be done if previous treatments do not work.

When should you see a doctor?

If you have any symptoms of trigger finger which repeatedly disrupt daily routine, do not hesitate to make an appointment to the doctor and seek early treatment.