Quick Answer
Trigger finger occurs when a flexor tendon does not glide smoothly through the A1 pulley in the palm, causing painful catching, clicking or locking. Symptoms may be worse in the morning. Diabetes and some inflammatory conditions increase risk, but many cases occur without a clear cause.
Symptoms
- Tenderness or a small nodule at the base of the digit
- Clicking or catching with bending/straightening
- Morning stiffness
- In advanced cases, locking in a bent position
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually clinical. Routine X-ray or MRI is generally unnecessary. Multiple trigger digits or associated diabetes/rheumatoid arthritis may influence assessment and treatment.
Treatment
Mild cases may be managed with activity modification, night splinting and range-of-motion exercises. Corticosteroid injection is commonly used; response varies with factors such as diabetes, symptom duration and the number of affected digits. BSSH provides evidence-based BEST guidance for adult trigger digits.
Surgery
A1 pulley release may be considered when substantial catching or locking persists despite nonsurgical care or significantly affects function. Open or percutaneous approaches may be appropriate depending on the case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I repeatedly force a locked finger straight?
Repeated forceful manipulation can increase pain. A persistently locked digit should be assessed.
Is trigger finger a form of osteoarthritis?
No. It primarily involves flexor-tendon gliding through the A1 pulley.
Sources
- BSSH — Trigger finger/thumb
- BSSH BEST — Evidence-based management of adult trigger digits
- AAOS OrthoInfo — Trigger Finger
Evidence sources checked: 7 August 2026.
This page is for general patient education and does not replace an individual medical examination or treatment plan.