How effective is cortisone injection for trigger finger?

The injection places an anti-inflammatory medicine around the irritated tendon sheath, where swelling can make the tendon catch as it moves. Improvement may develop over several days rather than immediately. A clinician can judge whether the symptoms and examination findings make an injection a reasonable option.

A useful response may mean less tenderness at the base of the finger, smoother movement, fewer episodes of locking, or being able to use the hand more comfortably. Some people improve after one injection, while others have only partial or temporary relief. Persistent catching does not mean the injection was given incorrectly; the tendon sheath may remain narrowed or irritated.

Your clinician will consider how long the problem has been present, whether the finger is painful or locked, which finger is affected, and your general health. Tell them about diabetes, medicines that affect bleeding, allergies, previous injections, and any skin or joint infection. These details can influence whether an injection is suitable and how the result is monitored.

Before treatment, describe the exact movement that causes catching and whether the finger becomes stuck in a bent position. After the injection, follow the activity advice you receive. Keeping the hand moving gently can help you notice whether motion is becoming easier, but avoid forcing a painful catch or quickly returning to an activity that repeatedly aggravates the finger.

A short-lived increase in soreness can occur after an injection. Contact the treating service if pain becomes progressively worse, the area becomes increasingly red or hot, swelling spreads, or you feel unwell. If symptoms return after an initial improvement, arrange a review so that other treatment choices can be discussed.

Seek prompt medical advice if the finger is suddenly very swollen, red, hot, or severely painful, especially with fever or feeling unwell. Urgent assessment is also appropriate if the finger becomes stuck and cannot be gently straightened, or if you develop new numbness, marked weakness, or a change in colour. These features can require assessment for a problem beyond routine trigger finger or a post-injection reaction.

Ask: What is causing my finger to catch? Where will the injection be placed? When should I expect improvement? Which activities should I modify while the finger settles? What signs would mean I need an earlier review? If the benefit is incomplete or wears off, what other options fit my symptoms?