Trigger Finger Treated at Mercy Medical Center

Trigger finger affects the tendons of the fingers. The sheath that surrounds the finger’s tendon becomes narrow which prevents the tendon from moving easily. Trigger finger causes the finger or thumb to bend and straighten with a snap. In severe cases of trigger finger, the finger or thumb remains bent and does not snap back.

Trigger finger most often occurs in the middle and ring fingers and the thumb. Repetitive actions can cause trigger finger and it may occur with Dupuytren’s disease. 

Trigger finger symptoms include:

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Clicking or popping
• Locking or catching
• Inability to straighten finger or thumb
• Sudden straightening of the finger or thumb

Orthopedic doctors specializing in hand and finger conditions can diagnose trigger finger by taking a medical history and performing a physical exam.

Treatment options for trigger finger depend on the severity of the condition. Trigger finger treatment options can include:

• Splinting
• Exercises
• Resting the finger or thumb
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Steroid medication
• Use of needle to release finger
• Surgical release of the tendon