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Trigger finger symptoms

Trigger Finger

Trigger finger causes the affected finger to catch, click, or lock when bending. In severe cases, the finger becomes stuck in a bent position and must be manually straightened. It is one of the most common hand conditions and responds well to treatment.

Prof Paul LeeReviewed byProf Paul LeeLast reviewed 1 May 2026
Hand specialist explaining trigger finger

How trigger finger develops

The flexor tendons run through a series of pulleys that hold them close to the bone. In trigger finger, the A1 pulley at the base of the finger becomes thickened, and the tendon may develop a nodule that catches as it passes through.

  • Clicking or snapping sensation when bending or straightening the finger.
  • Finger locking in a bent position, requiring the other hand to straighten it.
  • Soreness or a palpable nodule at the base of the affected finger.
  • Symptoms often worse in the morning and after gripping activities.
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Treatment options

  • Splinting the finger in extension to reduce catching, particularly at night.
  • Steroid injection into the tendon sheath, effective in the majority of cases.
  • Surgical release of the A1 pulley under local anaesthetic for recurrent or refractory cases.

Most patients achieve full resolution with either injection or a minor surgical procedure. The key is accurate diagnosis and timely treatment to prevent the finger from becoming permanently stiff.

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Trigger finger treatment

You may have more options than you think

Most patients have more treatment options than they have been told

At London Cartilage Clinic we follow a structured clinical framework across four areas of treatment. Before recommending a single procedure, we assess which combination of approaches gives you the best outcome.

Preserve

Protect what you have. Slow degeneration and manage symptoms.

Repair

Fix specific damage. Torn tissue, unstable joints, structural problems.

Regenerate

Rebuild lost tissue. Biological treatments that stimulate new growth.

Replace

When other options are exhausted. Joint replacement as a last resort.

Explore the full range of treatments available for your joint. Each hub page shows every option we offer, organised by clinical approach.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What causes trigger finger?

Trigger finger occurs when the flexor tendon sheath (the tunnel the tendon glides through) becomes narrowed or the tendon develops a nodule. This creates friction, causing the finger to catch, click, or lock when bending or straightening. It is more common in people with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or repetitive hand use.

Which fingers are most commonly affected?

The ring finger and thumb are most frequently affected, though any finger can develop the condition. Multiple fingers can be involved at the same time.

Can trigger finger be treated without surgery?

Yes. Mild cases may respond to activity modification and splinting. A steroid injection into the tendon sheath is effective for many patients and can resolve the condition. Surgery is reserved for cases that do not respond to injection or recur after initial improvement.

What does trigger finger surgery involve?

The procedure involves a small incision over the affected tendon sheath and releasing (dividing) the A1 pulley that is constricting the tendon. It is performed under local anaesthetic as a day case, and finger movement is encouraged immediately afterwards.

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