What Causes Trigger Finger and How Is It Treated?

Trigger finger, or stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition where one or more of your fingers catches or locks in a bent position. It happens when the tendon that helps your finger move gets inflamed and irritated and stops being able to glide smoothly.

The condition can make your finger feel stiff and painful, and it may get stuck in a bent position before suddenly snapping straight. Trigger finger can make even the simplest daily tasks feel virtually impossible, but treatment can help.

Find out what causes trigger finger, what treatment options are available, and get prompt, professional care for your hand and wrist pain at Full Orthopedics Urgent Care in North Miami Beach, Florida.

The basics of trigger finger

The tendons in your fingers are strong, flexible cords that connect muscle to bone. They allow you to bend and straighten your fingers, and they glide through protective sheaths that help reduce friction and ensure smooth movement.

Trigger finger develops when inflammation narrows the space inside the tendon sheath. Inflammation makes it difficult for the tendon to move freely, and your finger can catch or get stuck in a bent position as a result.

Trigger finger can affect anyone, but a few different factors can increase your risk:

Repetitive hand movements

Frequent gripping, grasping, or pinching motions can strain the tendons in your hand, increasing your risk of irritation and inflammation. In particular, people who use tools that require repetitive gripping, like construction workers, farmers, and musicians, have a higher risk of developing trigger finger.

Medical conditions

People with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout are more prone to developing trigger finger due to chronic inflammation affecting the tendons.

Gender and age

Women and anyone over the age of 40 are more likely to experience trigger finger due to hormonal and age-related changes. For example, hormonal changes during menopause can increase inflammation and fluid retention, irritating your tendons. And as you age, your tendons lose elasticity and become more prone to thickening and degeneration.

The best treatment options for trigger finger

If you think you might have trigger finger, don’t wait to seek medical attention. Early treatment can help reduce discomfort and restore normal finger movement, and our team has the expertise to get you the answers you need.

We typically start with conservative approaches and progress to more advanced therapies if needed. Depending on your diagnosis, we may prescribe:

Anti-inflammatory medication

Since inflammation is a primary cause of trigger finger, anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. These medications minimize inflammation around your affected tendon to support smoother movement.

Physical therapy and stretching exercises

Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve flexibility in your affected finger and reduce stiffness. Your physical therapist may recommend specific hand exercises to restore mobility and prevent further irritation, which can include:

• Finger extensions to improve range of motion
• Passive stretching to reduce tightness
• Strengthening exercises to support tendon movement

Wearing a splint to keep your finger in an extended position overnight may also help prevent it from locking up in the morning.

Vitamin injections or supplements

Nutritional support can play a role in tendon health and healing. Vitamins B6 and B12, in particular, can support nerve function and reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial for trigger finger symptoms.

More advanced treatment options 

If trigger finger symptoms persist despite conservative treatments, you’re not out of options. Many people find relief with some combination of the treatments above, but we may refer you to a specialist if you need minor surgery to release the affected tendon and restore normal function.

Experiencing symptoms of trigger finger? Schedule an evaluation at Full Orthopedics Urgent Care to discuss the best treatment options for you. Call our office to schedule an appointment or check in online to get started on a path to healing.