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Trigger Finger

Trigger finger is a condition where a finger gets stuck in a bent position due to inflamed tendons. Explore its symptoms and non-surgical treatments, including splinting and steroid injections.

About this condition

Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition that affects the tendons in your fingers or thumb. It occurs when inflammation narrows the space within the sheath that surrounds the tendon in the affected finger. This narrowing can cause the tendon to catch or lock as you try to straighten or bend the finger, resulting in a snapping sensation, like pulling and releasing a trigger.

What you may be feeling

Symptoms of trigger finger may include:

Catching or locking: The affected finger may catch or lock in a bent position, and you may need to use your other hand to straighten it out.
Pain and stiffness: Pain or stiffness may occur at the base of the affected finger or thumb, particularly when bending or straightening it.
Tenderness and swelling: There may be tenderness and swelling at the base of the finger or thumb, along with a palpable nodule or bump in the palm.
Clicking or popping sensation: Some individuals may experience a clicking or popping sensation when moving the affected finger, particularly during activities that require repetitive gripping or grasping motions.

How we can help you

Splinting

A physiotherapist may recommend wearing a splint or brace to immobilise the affected finger or thumb, allowing the inflamed tendon to rest and heal.

Range of motion exercises

Gentle stretching and range of motion exercises can help improve flexibility and mobility in the affected finger or thumb, reducing stiffness and preventing further adhesions.

Strengthening exercises

Specific exercises targeting the muscles and tendons of the hand and forearm can help improve strength and stability, supporting the affected tendon and reducing the risk of recurrence.

Activity modification

Physiotherapists can provide guidance on modifying activities and ergonomics to reduce strain on the affected finger or thumb, allowing for optimal healing and recovery.

Manual therapy

Hands-on techniques such as massage, soft tissue mobilisation, and joint mobilisations can help reduce inflammation, improve tendon gliding, and alleviate pain.

Modalities

Therapeutic modalities such as ultrasound, heat therapy, and electrical stimulation may be used to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area.

So, what's next?

Being faced with an injury or being told by a health practitioner to undergo a particular treatment can be quite daunting. That’s why we are here to help you. You can book a 15-minute video consult to ask your trusted health practitioners any questions you may have on your mind. No judgement, no strings attached and most importantly, no fees!