Musculoskeletal

Trigger Finger (Stenosing Tenosynovitis)

Trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis) is a condition in which one of the fingers gets stuck in a bent position and then snaps straight, like a trigger being pulled and released. It occurs when inflammation narrows the space within the sheath that surrounds the tendon in the affected finger.

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Symptoms

3

Causes

5

Treatments

2

Prevention

Condition Overview

Understand key symptoms, causes, diagnosis options, and treatment pathways for Trigger Finger (Stenosing Tenosynovitis). This overview is intended for patient awareness and should be followed by specialist consultation.

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Symptoms

  • Finger stiffness, especially in the morning
  • A popping or clicking sensation when moving the finger
  • Tenderness or a bump (nodule) at the base of the affected finger
  • Finger catching or locking in a bent position
  • Finger locked in bent position (severe cases)

Causes

  • Inflammation of the tendon sheath (tenosynovitis)
  • Repeated gripping actions
  • Conditions: RA, diabetes, gout, hypothyroidism

Diagnosis

  • Physical examination (characteristic snap or click)
  • Ultrasound

Treatment

  • Resting the finger (splinting)
  • NSAIDs
  • Corticosteroid injections (most effective non-surgical treatment)
  • Percutaneous release (needle)
  • Surgery (release of A1 pulley)

Risk Factors

  • Female sex
  • Age 40–60
  • Diabetes
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Repetitive gripping activities

Prevention

  • Avoid repetitive gripping
  • Take breaks during repetitive tasks

Prevalence

Affects approximately 2–3% of the general population; up to 10% in diabetic patients.