Trigger finger is a common condition that causes inflammation in the tendons and causes them to get stuck in a lock or bent position which can make the joints tender and painful. This condition can be extremely painful and make it difficult for you to perform routine chores because you’re unable to straighten your finger.

How can you identify that you have trigger finger? Let’s find out!

Early symptoms of trigger finger:

  • You feel a soreness in the base of the thumb and another finger that may linger
  • There’s a lump in the base of any of the fingers near the palm
  • There’s tenderness along with soreness in the base of the fingers
  • There are clicking or snapping noises when you move your fingers
  • Your fingers are stiff

Advanced symptoms

One of the most common advanced symptoms of trigger finger includes your finger or thumb locking into one position, either straight or bent. Some people even struggle to straighten their finger without the help of other fingers and may find that the affected finger is the stiffest in the morning.

What are the common causes of trigger finger?

A woman with injured hand and trigger finger

There are several small bones in the fingers that are connected to the muscles with the help of tendons. When the muscles tighten, the tendons pull the bones so you can move your fingers. Longer tendons like flexor tendons function by sliding through a tendon sheath or tunnel to move the fingers. When the tunnel is too narrow, it’s unable to move easily, which causes trigger finger.

Soon, the tunnel can become irritated and even swell, which can make normal movement and motion very difficult. Sometimes, there can be inflammation in the joints and tendons which keeps your finger in a bent shape and makes it hard to straighten it.

Can you be prone to trigger finger?

Some people are more likely to get trigger finger than others. This includes people who are older (40-60 years) and have been diagnosed with tuberculosis, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and hypothyroidism. People who tend to use their fingers in repetitive motions, such as musicians when playing an instrument or typists, can end up with trigger finger.

A professional will be able to guide you best when it comes to seeking early and proper treatment.

If you struggle with wrist or hand pain, injuries, or conditions such as the above, feel free to consult our team of skilled and experienced CHTs in NJ. We offer wrist fracture treatment, hand pain therapy, and various other forms of occupational hand therapy in Edison, NJ. Get in touch with us today!