Trigger Finger

Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a painful condition affecting the tendons in the hand. As the finger or thumb is bent towards the palm, the tendon gets stuck and the finger clicks or locks. Sometimes, the tendon will become free and you will be able to move your finger again, however it may become stuck in a permanently bent position. Trigger finger can affect one or more fingers.

What causes Trigger Finger?

The exact cause of trigger finger is not known but is thought to be more prevalent in people who have previously injured their finger or hand or suffered Dupuytren’s contracture or De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, for example. It is also thought that people with other conditions including Diabetes, Gout and Rheumatoid Arthritis may be at more risk of developing a trigger finger.

What are symptoms/effects of Trigger Finger?

The symptoms of Trigger Finger may include:

Pain
Stiffness
Clicking
A small nodule/lump of tissue at the base of the affected finger or thumb

Physiotherapy treatment for Trigger Finger

Prior to physiotherapy treatment your Doctor may recommend wearing a night splint to prevent the finger becoming locked and/or a steroid injection into the finger or palm, to reduce swelling. In more advanced cases surgery may be required. Physiotherapy treatment can be very effective in your enhanced recovery in conjunction with a steroid injection and this should be discussed with your Doctor.

Physiotherapy treatment may include: