Version July 2025
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What is trigger finger? —
This is a condition that prevents a finger from straightening normally (figure 1). It happens when a tendon in the finger and the covering around it get inflamed. (Tendons are strong bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones.) Trigger finger is also called "stenosis flexor tenosynovitis."
When trying to straighten the finger, it can get stuck in a bent position. It can affect 1 or several fingers.
Anyone can get trigger finger. But it is more common in:
●Females between 40 and 60 years old
●People with certain conditions, including diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and amyloidosis
What are the symptoms of trigger finger? —
Symptoms usually start slowly over time, and can include:
●Feeling "snapping" or "catching" in your finger – This usually happens when bending your finger. It can also cause pain and swelling in your finger or palm.
●Your finger "locking" in a bent position (figure 1) – Some people wake up with their finger locked. In most cases, this gets better throughout the day.
At first, your finger might lock for only a moment. Over time, these symptoms can get worse. If this happens, you might have other symptoms, such as:
●Pain in the palm of your hand – The pain is usually below the affected finger. It might also go up into your finger or further down into your palm.
●Your finger getting stuck in a bent or straight position – In severe cases, you might not be able to move your finger out of this position.
Will I need tests? —
Probably not. Your doctor or nurse will ask about your symptoms and do an exam. They will examine your hand and fingers carefully and see how they move and work.
If they are not sure what is causing your symptoms, they might order tests. These can include imaging tests, which create pictures of the inside of the hand and wrist.
What can I do on my own to feel better? —
You can:
●Rest – Try to rest your finger. Avoid movements that make the pain worse, like pinching or grabbing things.
●Take pain medicines – You can try taking over-the-counter medicines called "NSAIDs." These help with pain and swelling. Examples include ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (sample brand name: Aleve).
Ask your doctor or nurse before taking new pain medicines if you:
•Have other medical conditions
•Already take other medicines
●Tape your finger – If your symptoms are mild, it might help to tape your affected finger to a healthy finger next to it (figure 2). This is called "buddy taping."
●Wear a splint – It might help to wear a splint that keeps your finger straight. Some people get relief from wearing a splint only while they sleep. These splints are sold in pharmacies and medical supply stores.
How is trigger finger treated? —
The first step is to try the things you can do on your own. If you do not get better, or your symptoms are severe, your doctor or nurse might suggest:
●A custom splint for your finger – Your doctor, nurse, or another health professional can make this for you.
●Shots of a "steroid" medicine – These shots go into your hand. They can help with swelling.
●Surgery – This is only an option for some people who do not get better with other treatments.
Can trigger finger be prevented? —
Probably not. Doctors are not sure what causes trigger finger.
Some people get symptoms after using their fingers too much, or doing the same finger motion over and over. If this causes your symptoms, it might help to take breaks when doing these movements.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call your doctor or nurse for advice if:
●You feel "snapping" or "catching" when you bend your finger.
●You cannot bend or straighten your finger normally.
●You have pain in your finger or hand.
●Your symptoms are not getting better after trying the home care suggestions above.
Patient education: Tenosynovitis (The Basics)
Patient education: Common finger injuries (The Basics)
Patient education: Hand pain (The Basics)
Patient education: How to care for a splint (The Basics)
