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Trigger Finger


About this topic


Trigger finger is a problem with straightening your finger or thumb. It seems as if your finger is stuck in a bent position. It may snap when it is straightened. Your fingers are made up of many small bones. Muscles help move your fingers and the muscles are attached to the bones with strong bands of tissue called tendons. If the area around the tendon becomes swollen, the tendon is not able to move as well as it should. Then, your finger may become stiff and have problems moving. ‚  

What are the causes?


The small space around the tendon becomes swollen. The tendon may also have a bump on it. Then, the tendon cannot move smoothly to bend and straighten your finger. ‚  

What can make this more likely to happen?


You are more likely to have this problem if you: ‚  
  • Have illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes
  • Are female
  • Are older than 45 years of age

What are the main signs?


  • Pain at the base of the finger
  • Stiffness in the joints of the finger
  • Popping or clicking when you move your finger
  • Finger catches or locks in a bent position

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?


Your doctor will do an exam and look at your finger and hand. Your doctor may have you try to move your fingers to check your motion. Your doctor may push on your fingers to test your strength. Your doctor will also check for numbness and blood flow. ‚  

How does the doctor treat this health problem?


Based on the problem, your doctor may suggest: ‚  
  • Rest and avoid activities that make your problem worse
  • Splint or brace
  • A shot of an anti-inflammatory drug called a corticosteroid. This will help with swelling. Talk with your doctor about the risks of this shot.
  • Surgery

What drugs may be needed?


The doctor may order drugs to: ‚  
  • Help with pain and swelling, like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). These are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS).
  • Help with pain, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol)

What problems could happen?


  • Loss of finger movement or strength
  • Ongoing pain or stiffness
  • Long-term disability
  • Injury to nerves, blood vessels, or other tissues

What can be done to prevent this health problem?


Take rests often when doing something with repeat hand motions. ‚  

Where can I learn more?


American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons ‚  
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/PDFs/A00024.pdf ‚  
American Society for Surgery of the Hand ‚  
http://www.assh.org/handcare/Hand-Anatomy/Details-Page/ArticleID/27938/Trigger-Finger ‚  
NHS Choices ‚  
http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/trigger-finger/pages/causes.aspx ‚  

Last Reviewed Date


2015-05-13 ‚  

List_set bdysylist


  • Adult
  • Neuromuscular and Skeletal
  • Therapy (Occupational, Physical, Speech, etc)

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider 's advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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