Have you ever felt your finger suddenly lock up in a position and when you try to straighten it it snaps open? Then you probably might be dealing with a condition known as Trigger Finger.

Overview

Trigger Finger, a.k.a. Stenosing tenosynovitis is a condition that usually affects the tendons of your fingers or thumb. The tendons are like ropes that connect muscles to bones, and in your fingers, they pass through small tunnels (sheaths). When these tunnels become tight or inflamed, the tendon can’t glide smoothly, causing your finger to catch, lock, or even stay stuck in a bent position before suddenly releasing with a “pop” like pulling a trigger.

Symptoms

• A popping or snapping sensation when moving or straightening the finger
• Finger stiffness, especially in the morning
• A painful nodule or lump at the base of the affected finger or thumb
• Finger gets stuck in a bent or folded position and then suddenly straightens
• In severe cases, the finger may remain locked and it may be difficult to bring it back into previous position 

Common Causes

• Overuse or repetitive gripping motions (e.g., in manual labor, musicians, or frequent smartphone users)
• Inflammation due to diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis
• Injury or trauma to the hand
• More common in middle-aged women
• Can also occur without a known cause

General Management

Mild cases often improve with rest and activity modification. Other treatment options include:

• Splinting the affected finger to limit movement and reduce irritation
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief
• Steroid injections to reduce inflammation in the tendon sheath in serious condition
• In persistent cases, surgery may be needed to release the tight portion of the sheath

Physiotherapy Management

Physiotherapy plays a major role in reducing symptoms, preventing stiffness, and improving hand function. It focuses on:

1. Pain Relief

1. Accelerated Healing Therapy: An advanced electrotherapy to reduce inflammation and promote healing
2. Cold or heat therapy, depending on the stage of pain, cold can reduce inflammation and hot can relieve pain in later condition

2. Tendon Gliding Exercises

• Gentle, guided exercises to help the tendon move freely through the sheath
• Helps reduce stiffness and prevent locking

3. Stretching and Strengthening

• Stretching of the fingers and palm to improve flexibility and mobility 
• Strengthening exercises to support hand function without overloading the tendon

4. Activity Modification

• Teaching patients how to avoid repetitive gripping
• Ergonomic advice for daily tasks and work-related activities

Final Words

Trigger Finger can be frustrating, but with timely management, especially through physiotherapy and lifestyle changes, most people recover well without needing surgery. If your finger clicks, catches, or locks, don’t ignore it. Early care can save you from chronic discomfort and limited hand function.