How is trigger finger treated?

Trigger finger happens when a finger tendon does not glide smoothly through its surrounding pulley. This can cause morning stiffness, clicking, or a finger that catches while bending or straightening. Mild symptoms may settle when gripping, pinching, or repetitive hand work is reduced. A clinician may recommend a night splint to keep the finger in a comfortable position and limit irritation.

A cortisone injection can reduce swelling around the tendon and may improve movement. If symptoms continue, return, or prevent the finger from opening, trigger finger release surgery can widen the tight pulley so the tendon moves more freely. The choice depends on how long symptoms have been present, which finger is affected, and your examination.

Avoid forceful repeated gripping for a short period, but keep the other fingers moving gently. Do not force a locked finger straight. Use a splint only as directed, because prolonged restriction can make the hand stiffer. Arrange an assessment if catching persists, if pain interferes with work or sleep, or if you cannot fully bend or straighten the finger.

Seek prompt medical care after an injury if the finger is visibly deformed, deeply cut, unusually pale or blue, or suddenly impossible to move. Arrange routine review for ongoing locking, increasing swelling, numbness, or reduced hand use so tendon movement and nerve function can be checked.

Ask whether splinting fits your pattern of symptoms, what benefit an injection may offer, and when release surgery would be considered. You can also ask which activities to modify and how to regain comfortable movement after treatment.