Trigger Finger
Trigger finger is caused by localised swelling in one of the tendons that run along the palmar aspect of your fingers and thumbs. The precise reason why this occurs isn’t fully understood.
This swelling makes it difficult for the affected tendon to slide through its membrane (tendon sheath) properly, causing the pain and stiffness associated with trigger finger. The swelling causes a section of the tendon to form a small lump (nodule) toward the base of the affected finger or thumb.
This nodule leads to the tendon intermittently becoming stuck in the tendon sheath, causing the affected finger or thumb to become locked in a bent position. The affected tendon may then suddenly release your finger like the release of a trigger. This release may happen spontaneously or may require you to “unlock” the affected finger/thumb by straightening it with your other hand.
Local commissioning policies are in place for this condition
Please be aware that there are local commissioning policies in place for this condition. This means that certain treatments may not be available to you on the NHS.
Please click here for more information.
Selfcare and more information
Managing my condition
Sometimes trigger finger can get better without any treatment. Your GP may recommend avoiding activities that cause the pain to see if this helps relieve your symptoms. Taking anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen may also be helpful in relieving pain. Physiotherapy or hand therapy may also be suggested.
Splinting
Using a splint can be helpful for some people. The splint can ease symptoms by stopping your finger from moving. If your finger is particularly stiff in the morning, it could help to use a splint overnight. Splints for trigger finger/thumb are available over the counter and you can obtain advice about how to use them from your pharmacist.
Corticosteroid injections
Corticosteroids can be used to reduce the swelling associated with trigger finger. A long-acting corticosteroid preparation is injected into the tendon sheath at the base of the affected finger or thumb where the nodule can be felt.
By reducing the swelling of the tendon, the corticosteroid injection allows the tendon to move freely again. Occasionally, this can happen within a few days of having the injection, however generally it will take a few weeks to work.
It is estimated that corticosteroid injections are an effective treatment for 50-80% of people with trigger finger. It is less effective on people with certain underlying health conditions, such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.
In some cases, the problem can return after treatment. You can have a second injection if the effect wears off, but this is often less effective than the first injection.
The risks of corticosteroid injections for trigger finger are small. They can cause some thinning or colour change in the skin at the site of injection, but this is rare. There is also a very small risk of infection. However, repeat corticosteroid injections are associated with a higher risk of side-effects and may therefore indicate the need for a surgical solution.
Surgery
Surgery is rarely required for trigger-finger but may be recommended if the above treatments don’t work or are unsuitable. Surgery will depend on the amount of pain you are in and whether it is associated with other medical problems like rheumatoid arthritis, and how much it is affecting your life.
In Devon there are local guidelines your GP will have to follow before referring you for surgery. You can read the associated policy by clicking here.
If you are referred for surgery, the operation itself will take around 20 minutes, and you won’t need to stay overnight in hospital. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic.
More information
You can visit the NHS website for further information about trigger finger:
Waiting for a specialist opinion
If you have been referred for a specialist opinion your details will be reviewed and it may be recommended that you are seen by a hospital clinician. Information to support you in choosing your preferred hospital, including waiting times can be found using the links below.
How long will I wait?
If a hospital assessment and/or treatment is clinically recommended your information will be sent to a specialist. Click below to find out more about waiting times for routine hospital assessment and/or treatment:
What support is available?
Support for managing my Trigger Finger
For referral to physiotherapy in Northern and Eastern Devon, you will need to contact your GP.