One finger stiff and painful: possible causes

Pain after a jam, cut, or forceful movement may involve a sprain, fracture, or tendon. A finger that catches, clicks, or locks while bending may fit trigger finger. A cord or lump in the palm with gradually increasing inability to straighten can occur with Dupuytren's contracture. Pain and stiffness at a finger joint can occur with hand osteoarthritis, while warmth and swelling in several joints may suggest inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions can overlap in appearance, so the timing and location matter.

Rest the finger from gripping and repetitive work, but keep gentle movement within a comfortable range to avoid added stiffness. Use a cool pack wrapped in cloth after a recent injury; avoid placing ice directly on skin. Remove rings before swelling increases. Do not force a locked finger straight or tape it tightly without guidance. A clinician or hand therapist can check motion, strength, sensation, and whether imaging or a splint is appropriate.

Get urgent care if the finger is visibly crooked, blue or pale, numb, severely swollen, open after an injury, or impossible to move. Seek prompt assessment for spreading redness, pus, fever, or rapidly worsening pain. Arrange a routine appointment if stiffness persists, repeatedly catches, or interferes with work, sleep, or daily tasks.

Is the problem centred in the joint, tendon, or bone? Would a splint or exercises help? Which movements should I avoid, and what change should prompt an earlier review?