Treatment for Mild to Severely Locked Trigger Finger

Trigger finger (also called stenosing tenosynovitis) is a condition that occurs when inflammation causes the flexor tendon that bends a finger to get stuck in the tendon sheath that helps keep it in place.

This condition ranges in severity. In mild cases, pain might be the only symptom. The finger can become locked in a straight or bent position in severe cases.

This article discusses trigger finger treatment and will help you identify treatments to try at home and signs to look for that require medical attention.

Trigger Finger Treatment

Trigger finger treatment varies based on the severity of the condition. It can involve noninvasive approaches such as splinting to stabilize the joint or over-the-counter (OTC) medications to relieve pain and inflammation. In more severe cases, you may need surgery.

At-Home, Nondrug Treatments

Conservative treatment for trigger finger aims to decrease pressure on the affected tendon to help reduce swelling and inflammation, such as avoiding activities that worsen symptoms.

Splinting the finger in a straight position also decreases pressure on the flexor tendon. However, keeping a finger straight can make daily tasks difficult. Many people with trigger finger opt to wear these splints while sleeping.

Another way to manage pain and inflammation is by applying ice to the affected hand for 10 to 15 minutes several times daily.

At-Home Medications

You can use various OTC nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Aleve (naproxen), Advil/Motrin (ibuprofen), and aspirin to help decrease inflammation.

Tylenol (acetaminophen) can also help decrease pain or talk to a healthcare provider about prescription-strength, NSAIDs.

Healthcare providers often treat trigger finger with corticosteroid injections directly into the affected structure. It can often take more than one injection for long-term symptom relief.

Surgery

If your trigger finger does not improve with conservative treatment, a healthcare provider may recommend surgery. Trigger finger release surgery is a standard outpatient procedure healthcare providers use to treat this condition.

The procedure involves cutting the affected structure—typically the A1 pulley—to allow the tendon to glide through the sheath without "catching." This procedure can be done with a needle tip or with an open incision.

Exercise and Rehabilitation

Sometimes, people need rehabilitation after trigger finger release, which a certified hand therapist often directs. Treatment focuses on restoring normal finger range of motion and hand strength to improve function.

Gentle hand exercises and stretches can help maintain mobility and flexibility.

Wrist Stretch

Tendons that bend (flex) the fingers are connected to muscles in the forearms. To stretch these muscles:

1. Press your palms together in front of your chest with your fingers out straight.
2. Lift your elbows slightly to increase the intensity of the stretch (if tolerable).
3. Hold this stretch for 10 seconds and repeat several times throughout the day.

Blocking Exercises

These exercises focus on bending specific joints in the finger rather than the large knuckles that cause the triggering to occur. Do them as follows:

1. Using the opposite hand, grasp the affected finger just below the crease nearest to the end of your finger.
2. Bend just the tip of your finger five times.
3. Move your hand to just below the middle knuckle of the finger, holding your large knuckle straight.
4. Bend the middle knuckle five times.
5. Repeat each hour while you're awake.

If triggering occurs, stop the blocking exercises and consult a healthcare provider.

Mobility Effects During Trigger Finger Treatment

Trigger finger can affect the thumb or any other finger and develop in more than one finger at a time. Since this condition causes pain with finger bending and straightening, you may find yourself avoiding these movements. Unfortunately, limiting movement can lead to stiffness and decreased range of motion in the long run.

Gentle blocking exercises described in the previous section can help you maintain joint mobility while minimizing stress on the affected tendon.

Trigger Finger Treatment Timeline

Recovery from trigger finger varies based on the severity of the condition and the treatment path. In some cases, mild trigger finger can resolve independently without treatment.

Splinting for trigger finger can take around six to nine weeks before symptoms completely resolve. Cortisone injections usually work more quickly, decreasing pain within a few days and resolving the triggering within a few weeks.

After trigger finger release surgery, it can take four to six months to regain full range of motion. In severe cases, stiffness caused by trigger finger can be permanent.

Summary

Trigger finger occurs when a tendon in the palm "catches" as a finger bends and straightens. The severity of this condition ranges from mild to severe. Mild cases sometimes resolve on their own, without treatment. Conservative treatment can include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, splinting, and corticosteroid injections. In severe cases, surgery might be required.

Hand therapy rehabilitation can be helpful for both conservative and postoperative treatment for trigger finger. Interventions include tips for adapting daily tasks, splinting, range of motion exercises, and when appropriate, strengthening exercises.