Rheumatoid arthritis and trigger finger: what to know

Rheumatoid arthritis commonly causes joint pain, warmth, swelling, and stiffness in more than one hand or foot joint. Trigger finger is a movement problem involving a finger tendon and its surrounding tunnel; the finger may click, catch, or remain bent before releasing. Both can make gripping and daily tasks difficult, but they are not interchangeable diagnoses.

A clinician may examine the tender joints, the palm, and the finger’s movement. Note whether stiffness is strongest in the morning, whether the finger locks, and whether swelling is present. You can read more about [Finger Stiffness](/symptoms/finger-stiffness/) and [Rheumatoid Arthritis](/conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/).

Reduce activities that repeatedly forcefully grip or squeeze until the hand has been assessed. Gentle movement within comfort can help prevent guarding, but do not force a locked finger straight. Keep a record of clicking, swelling, and morning symptoms. Your clinician may review rheumatoid arthritis control and discuss options such as splinting, hand therapy, injection, or another procedure based on the examination.

Arrange prompt care if a finger stays locked, the hand becomes suddenly very swollen or red, or pain prevents ordinary use. Seek urgent help after an injury with deformity, numbness, or a pale or blue finger. Ongoing [Hand Swelling](/symptoms/hand-swelling/) or increasing [Joint Stiffness](/symptoms/joint-stiffness/) also deserves review of inflammatory disease activity.

Is the catching coming from a tendon or an inflamed joint? Could my rheumatoid arthritis treatment need review? Would a splint or hand therapy be appropriate? What should I do if the finger locks again?