trigger finger

Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a disorder characterized by catching or locking of the affected finger. The pain can occur in the palm of the hand or in the knuckles. The name is due to the clicking sound the affected finger makes when it moves.

Most commonly the index finger or thumb is affected.

Risk factors include repeated injuries, diabetes, kidney disease, thyroid disease, and inflammatory disease. The underlying mechanism implies that the tendon sheath is too narrow for the flexor tendon.

This typically occurs at the A1 pulley level. Although it is often referred to as a type of stenosing tenosynovitis, there appears to be little inflammation.

Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms after excluding other possible causes. Trigger finger is relatively common. Women are affected more frequently than men.​ Those between 50 and 60 years of age are the most affected.

Initial treatment is usually with rest, a finger splint, NSAIDs, or steroid injections. If this is not effective, surgery may be used.