Trigger Finger or Trigger Thumb - Orthopaedic Innovations

What is Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis) develops when inflammation or thickening around the flexor tendon restricts its movement through the tendon sheath.

This can lead to:

Clicking or snapping as the tendon catches during movement
Pain or tenderness at the base of the finger or thumb, often felt in the palm
Locking of the finger in a bent position, which may require manual straightening

The condition can affect any finger or the thumb and may involve more than one digit. Symptoms often begin gradually and may worsen over time if left untreated. In advanced cases, there can be long term restriction of finger bending or straightening.

What causes Trigger Finger? What are the risk factors?

Trigger finger usually develops due to irritation of the tendon system. Common contributing factors include:

Repetitive gripping or hand use, particularly manual or tool-based work
Diabetes or inflammatory conditions, which increase tendon thickening
Previous hand injury or surgery
Age-related tendon changes

In many cases, symptoms develop without a clear single cause.

What are the symptoms of Trigger Finger?

Symptoms often begin gradually and may worsen over time if left untreated. You may notice:

Clicking or snapping in the fingers
Pain or tenderness at the base of the finger or thumb, often felt in the palm
Locking of the finger in a bent position.

How is it diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually made during a clinical assessment, which includes:

Observing how the finger bends and straightens
Checking for clicking, catching, or locking during active movement
Palpating the base of the finger to assess for tenderness, thickening, or a small tendon nodule
Assessing grip strength and overall hand function

Imaging is rarely required unless another condition is suspected.

How is Trigger Finger treated?

Treatment depends on symptom severity and how much the condition affects daily activities.

Non-Surgical Care

Early or mild cases may respond to:

Activity modification to reduce strain
Splinting to rest the affected finger
Anti-inflammatory measures
Dedicated hand therapy

Steroid Injections

A corticosteroid (steroid) injection is delivered into or around the tendon sheath to reduce inflammation and allow the tendon to glide freely again. This treatment can:

Reduce pain and swelling within the tendon sheath
Restore smoother finger movement and reduce clicking or locking
Prevent progression of symptoms, particularly when used early
Avoid the need for surgery in many cases

At Orthopaedic innovations, steroid injections for trigger finger start from £400. Full pricing and suitability are discussed during consultation.

Surgery may be recommended if symptoms persist despite non-surgical treatment or if the finger remains locked.

Surgery - Ultrasound-Guided Trigger Finger Release

Trigger finger release is a minor day-case procedure, usually performed under local anaesthetic. The procedure is typically short, and patients are able to go home straight away.

What is the recovery like after treatment?

After steroid injections: Most people return to normal hand use quickly, with gradual improvement over days to weeks (full effect of the injection can take 2-3 weeks).
After surgery: Finger movement often improves immediately, with strength and comfort continuing to improve over the following weeks.

When should I seek help?

You may benefit from assessment if:

Finger clicking or locking interferes with daily tasks
Pain or stiffness is worsening
Symptoms have not improved with rest or activity modification

A consultation allows diagnosis to be confirmed and appropriate treatment options discussed.

At Orthopaedic Innovation, our world leading surgical team offers a range of treatment options for people experiencing Trigger Finger.

Trigger finger surgery

Non-surgical options

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Locations

Outpatient Clinic
Phoenix Hospital Group,
9 Harley Street,
London, W1G 9QJ

Inpatient
Weymouth Street Hospital,
42-46 Weymouth St,
London, W1G 6NP

Outpatient Clinic
Minor Procedures
25 Harley Street,
London, W1G 9QJ

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Medical disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, medical knowledge is constantly evolving, and individual cases may vary. Any surgical or non-surgical treatments discussed on this website should be considered in consultation with a medical professional who can assess your individual needs and medical history.

Trigger Finger