Trigger Finger/Trigger Thumb

Trigger finger or trigger thumb happens when your finger or thumb locks or clicks when it is bent and then suddenly pops back when trying to straighten it, like a trigger on a gun. The cause of the locking, and resulting soreness, is swelling and inflammation around the tendon. “Triggering” commonly happens at night or in the morning after sleeping with the hand in a fisted position for a long period of time. Triggering can also happen with activities that require repeated gripping or pinching, such as holding a pen. Health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes can also cause Trigger Finger or Trigger Thumb.

For more information on Trigger Finger or Trigger Thumb, check out our blogs - What Can I Do About My Trigger Finger? or I Think I Have a Trigger Thumb - What Can I Do About It?

SYMPTOMS OF TRIGGER FINGER AND TRIGGER THUMB

• Your finger or thumb clicks, locks or pops when you try to straighten it from a fist
• Your finger or thumb gets stuck in a bent position
• Your finger or thumb locks in a bent position then suddenly springs straight
• Your finger or thumb is stiff, especially in the morning
• Your finger or thumb hurts at the base, near your palm

WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT TRIGGER FINGER/TRIGGER THUMB

The typical treatment for trigger finger/thumb is to wear a splint that keeps your finger or thumb in an extended position and limits the motions. If necessary, a local cortisone injection can also help reduce inflammation. Applying ice to the palm of your hand, resting your finger/thumb, and eliminating activities that involve repetitive gripping may also help reduce your pain and improve your ability to move your finger. 

If the joints of your finger feel hot to the touch and are swollen, see your health care provider as quickly as you can, as you may have an infection.

OVAL-8 FINGER SPLINT FOR TRIGGER FINGER

Watch Our Videos

"How to Treat a Trigger Finger and Trigger Thumb with an Oval-8 Finger Splint"