What should you know about finger stiffness?

Note which fingers are affected, whether one or both hands are involved, and whether stiffness is worse on waking or after use. Painful clicking or a finger catching in a bent position can occur with trigger finger. A firm cord or a finger gradually pulled toward the palm can occur with Dupuytren's Contracture. Bony joint enlargement may fit hand osteoarthritis, while several swollen, tender joints and prolonged morning stiffness can occur with rheumatoid arthritis. Finger stiffness itself does not identify one condition.

Use gentle bending and straightening within a comfortable range, keep the hand warm, and take breaks from gripping or repetitive tasks. Avoid forcing a locked finger or repeatedly testing painful movement. After an injury, protect the hand and seek advice about splinting rather than choosing a tight splint yourself. Record when symptoms occur, any clicking or numbness, and whether rings become difficult to remove. A hand clinician or physiotherapist can tailor exercises after examining the joints and tendons.

Seek urgent help after a major injury, if a finger is visibly deformed, or if it becomes blue, cold, numb, or impossible to move. Arrange a review for increasing swelling, warmth, redness, severe pain, a persistent locked finger, or stiffness that interferes with dressing, writing, or work. Early assessment can clarify whether the problem is joint, tendon, or nerve related.

Which structure seems to be causing the stiffness? Do I need an examination or imaging? Which movements are safe? Should I be assessed for an inflammatory joint condition or a tendon problem?