What are the symptoms of trigger finger?
Common symptoms of trigger finger include:
- Stiffness in the finger
- A popping or clicking sensation when moving the finger
- Swelling at the base of the finger
- Pain in the affected finger or thumb
- Difficulty in straightening the finger
What causes trigger finger?
Trigger finger happens when the tendons that help move the fingers become inflamed or thickened. This may be caused by:
- Repetitive hand movements
- Certain health conditions like diabetes or arthritis
- Injury to the finger
How common is trigger finger?
Trigger finger is relatively common, especially among adults, and it can affect both men and women.
Who is more likely to get trigger finger?
Some factors that may increase the chance of getting trigger finger include:
- Being female
- Having a health condition such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis
- Age, as it often occurs in people over 40
How can I treat trigger finger?
There are several ways to treat trigger finger, including:
- Resting the affected finger
- Using ice to reduce swelling
- Taking over-the-counter pain relief medications
- Physical therapy to improve movement
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
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How to live with trigger finger?
Living with trigger finger may involve:
- Making sure to stretch and exercise the fingers regularly
- Avoiding repetitive movements that may worsen symptoms
- Using hand tools that are designed to lessen strain on the fingers
Final thoughts
Trigger finger can be uncomfortable, but it is manageable with proper treatment and care. If you are concerned about your symptoms, it is a good idea to speak to your GP or healthcare provider.
