Trigger finger—also known as stenosing tenosynovitis—is a common condition that affects the tendons in your fingers and thumb. At CJ Allen Hand Therapy, serving patients in Smithtown and Hauppauge, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of trigger finger and trigger thumb, offering expert care to help restore finger movement and reduce pain and stiffness.
What Is Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger occurs when the tendon sheath at the base of your affected finger or thumb becomes inflamed, causing the tendon to have difficulty gliding smoothly. This results in the finger or thumb becoming stuck in a bent position, often causing it to catch or lock painfully. Trigger finger can make it difficult to straighten the affected finger, and in more severe cases, the finger may become permanently stuck unless manually straightened.
Symptoms of Trigger Finger
Patients with trigger finger often report the following symptoms
- A sensation of the finger getting stuck or locking during movement
- Pain and stiffness near the base of the affected finger
- A popping or clicking feeling when moving the finger or thumb
- Swelling or tenderness in the palm
- Finger pain that worsens in the morning
- A bent finger that may straighten with a snap
If your finger gets stuck in a bent or locked position, or you experience pain and inflammation in your hand or fingers and thumb, you may be dealing with trigger finger.
What Causes Trigger Finger?
There are many potential causes of trigger finger, including
- Inflammation of the tendon sheath
- Repetitive gripping or the use of tools
- Rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions
- Diabetes (increases the risk of developing trigger finger)
- Gender and age (more common in women and adults over 40)
The primary trigger for this condition is swelling that limits tendon movement, making it difficult for your finger or thumb to extend fully.
Diagnosing Trigger Finger
At CJ Allen Hand Therapy, we use special tests to diagnose trigger finger, which may include:
Clinical evaluation of finger movement
- Assessment of pain and stiffness
- Checking for locking of the finger or triggering motion
Palpation at the base of the affected finger to detect tenderness
A trigger finger diagnosis is typically made based on the patient’s symptoms and a physical examination. If needed, we may refer you for imaging or additional evaluation.
Treatment for Trigger Finger
Treatment options for trigger finger depend on the severity of your symptoms. At CJ Allen Hand Therapy, we focus on non-surgical treatment first:
Conservative Treatments
- Wearing a splint at night to rest the affected finger or thumb
- Stretching exercises to improve mobility
- Activity modification and ergonomic education
- Use of ice and anti-inflammatory strategies
- Steroid injection for trigger finger to reduce inflammation
These methods often help reduce pain and improve function. For patients who do not respond to conservative care, we may coordinate surgical treatment options, such as percutaneous trigger finger release.
Managing Trigger Finger at CJ Allen Hand Therapy
Whether you’re newly experiencing symptoms or have been diagnosed with trigger finger, CJ Allen Hand Therapy is here to help. We specialize in the management of trigger finger, from early interventions to post-operative care following surgery for trigger finger release.
Trigger finger is a condition that can be effectively treated. If your finger may get stuck or if you’re noticing pain at the base of your affected finger, don’t wait. Early diagnosis and intervention for trigger finger can make a significant difference.
If you’re searching for trigger finger treatment or want to diagnose trigger finger, visit CJ Allen Hand Therapy. We have locations in Smithtown or Hauppauge, NY. Our expert therapists are experienced in treating trigger finger in adults, including trigger thumb, and are committed to reducing your pain and swelling, restoring normal finger function, and preventing further complications. Visit our website and request an appointment today!
Don’t hesitate to contact our offices if you are recovering from a hand or upper extremity injury!