Trigger finger

The long tendons in your hand called flexor tendons allow you to move your fingers and thumb. Flexor tendons slide through a tunnel called the tendon sheath. If the tendon becomes irritated it cannot glide smoothly through the tendon sheath. Typically the tendon feels stuck. You may feel a pop as the tendon works through the tight tunnel or your finger may shoot straight out. The causes for trigger finger are not known and in some cases the condition gets better without treatment.

Conservative treatments can include:

• Anti-inflammatory medication to decrease swelling and reduce pain
• Splitting to decrease movement and allow the tendon to rest
• Steroid injections to reduce swelling

If your trigger finger does not respond to conservative treatment your consultant may recommend surgery to widen the tendon sheath.