​​Trigger finger is a common condition that affects the movement of the fingers or thumb, causing them to catch, click or lock when bent or straightened. The condition occurs when inflammation develops around the tendon sheath surrounding the flexor tendon in the finger or thumb.

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As the tendon becomes irritated and swollen, it can no longer glide smoothly through the tendon sheath. In some cases, a small nodule may form on the tendon, creating the characteristic “triggering” or locking sensation during movement.

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Trigger finger can affect any finger or the thumb and may gradually worsen over time if left untreated. It is often associated with repetitive gripping activities, manual work, diabetes, arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

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What Are the Symptoms of Trigger Finger?

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Symptoms can range from mild stiffness to painful locking of the finger or thumb.

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Catching or Clicking Sensation

Many patients notice a popping, clicking or catching sensation when bending or straightening the affected finger.

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Finger Stiffness

The finger may feel stiff, particularly first thing in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

 

Pain or Tenderness

Pain is commonly felt at the base of the finger or thumb in the palm. Some patients may also notice tenderness or discomfort when gripping objects.

 

Lump or Nodule

A small lump or thickening may sometimes be felt near the base of the affected finger where the tendon has become inflamed.

 

Locking of the Finger

In more advanced cases, the finger can become temporarily locked in a bent position and may suddenly release or require assistance to straighten.

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When Should You Seek Treatment?

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If trigger finger symptoms are becoming painful, affecting hand function or interfering with daily activities, early treatment can help prevent worsening stiffness and locking.

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At Midland Hand Clinic, we provide specialist assessment and tailored treatment plans designed to restore comfortable hand movement and improve function.

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How Is Trigger Finger Diagnosed?

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Trigger finger is usually diagnosed during a clinical consultation and physical examination.

Your specialist will assess:

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• finger movement

• areas of tenderness

• locking or clicking during motion

• hand function and grip strength

 

Patients are often asked to bend and straighten the affected finger to observe the triggering sensation directly.

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In most cases, scans or X-rays are not required to diagnose trigger finger.

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How Is Trigger Finger Treated?

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Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation around the tendon and restoring smooth tendon movement.

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The most appropriate treatment depends on:

• symptom severity

• duration of symptoms

• level of locking

• impact on daily activities

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Non-Surgical Treatment Options

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Splinting

Wearing a splint can help rest the affected tendon and reduce irritation, particularly during sleep.

 

Activity Modification

Reducing repetitive gripping activities or strain on the hand may help relieve symptoms and prevent further inflammation.

 

Steroid Injections

A corticosteroid injection into the tendon sheath is a common and highly effective treatment for many patients. Injections can reduce inflammation, relieve pain and improve finger movement.

 

Trigger Finger Release Surgery

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If symptoms persist or the finger becomes locked, trigger finger release surgery may be recommended.

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This is a straightforward procedure performed under local anaesthetic, usually as a day-case treatment. During the procedure, the tight portion of the tendon sheath is released, allowing the tendon to move freely again.

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Trigger finger release surgery is generally very successful and can provide long-term relief from:

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• locking

• stiffness

• pain

• restricted finger movement

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Most patients return home the same day and gradually resume normal hand function during recovery.

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Recovery After Trigger Finger Treatment

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Recovery times vary depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment performed.

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Following surgery, patients are encouraged to gently move the finger to maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness. Some patients may also benefit from hand therapy exercises to optimise recovery and restore hand strength.

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Expert Trigger Finger Treatment in Birmingham & Solihull

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If you are experiencing pain, stiffness or locking in your fingers or thumb, specialist assessment can help identify the most effective treatment options.

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Mr G Shyamalan is an experienced consultant hand surgeon providing expert trigger finger diagnosis and treatment across Birmingham, Solihull, Sutton Coldfield and Warwickshire.

 

Contact Midland Hand Clinic today to arrange your private consultation and take the next step toward comfortable, pain-free hand movement.