Overview
Trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis) occurs when the tendon sheath in the finger becomes inflamed and narrowed, causing the finger to catch, lock or snap when bending. It commonly affects the thumb, ring or middle finger.
A precise corticosteroid injection into the tendon sheath is highly effective — about 85% of patients respond to the first injection, avoiding the need for surgery.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Finger catching or locking when bending
- Painful clicking sensation
- Tenderness or a small bump at the base of the finger
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- Finger 'stuck' in bent position needing to be straightened
Causes & Risk Factors
- ▸Repetitive gripping (using tools, mobile phones)
- ▸Diabetes (significantly increased risk)
- ▸Rheumatoid arthritis
- ▸More common in women aged 40–60
Treatment Options
Steroid Injection
First-line treatment with very high success rate.
Splinting
Night splint to rest the affected finger.
Activity Modification
Reduce gripping and repetitive hand use.
Surgical Release
Considered only if injections fail — we refer when needed.