What should you know about tennis trigger finger?

Repeated gripping can irritate the tendon and its surrounding pulley in the palm. A finger may feel stiff when you wake, click as it bends, or become stuck before releasing. The tender spot is often near the base of the affected finger, not necessarily at the knuckle. Finger stiffness can have other causes, so a clinician may check the tendon path, joint movement and any swelling before naming the problem.

Reduce prolonged gripping and take breaks from activities that trigger catching. Gentle range-of-motion movements are reasonable when they do not force a locked finger. A clinician may suggest splinting to limit irritating movement, or a cortisone injection when appropriate. If symptoms remain limiting, trigger finger release is a surgical option that can be discussed with an orthopaedic specialist.

Arrange an assessment when catching persists, the finger repeatedly locks, or pain interferes with work, sleep or racket handling. Seek prompt care if the finger becomes suddenly deformed after injury, turns pale or blue, loses sensation, or cannot be moved.

Ask whether the tendon or joint is responsible, how long to trial activity changes or a splint, and what side effects or limits apply to an injection. Ask when surgery becomes reasonable and how return to tennis would be planned.