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A tendon slippage problem
The flexor tendons allow the fingers to bend. They slide in sheaths and are held close to the bones by small rings called pulleys. In trigger finger, the passageway near the base of the finger becomes too narrow for smooth gliding.
The tendon may catch then suddenly pass, producing a click or a snap. The thumb may also be affected. This mechanism is different from a worn joint or a Dupuytren’s cord in the palm. Discomfort in the same place therefore does not mean that the same exercises or the same treatment will be suitable.
Chapter sources [1]
Understand the picture
A tendon that catches in its passage
Flexor tendon
It transmits the force that bends the finger.
Pulley
It keeps the tendon close to the bone; a narrow passage can hinder its sliding.
Catching
The tendon grabs and then passes, which can produce a clicking or blocking sound.
Chapter sources [1]
Pain, clicking and blocking
Tenderness in the palm at the base of the finger may appear before the catching starts. The finger catches when bending or straightening, sometimes especially when waking up. It may remain bent and require help from the other hand to straighten up. This can interfere with a handle, tool or clothing.
The presentation varies: some people have mainly stiffness and pain, others a clear blockage. A trigger thumb can give the impression that its end joint has become stiff. Describe what is happening without causing it to click multiple times to show it. A video taken during a spontaneous episode can sometimes help the interview.
Chapter sources [1]
Why does this appear
A thickening of the tendon or its passage can disrupt sliding. Diabetes is an associated factor, but many people do not have it. An inflammatory disease can also be involved. The problem sometimes appears after a significant period of use of the hand, but the exact cause often remains unclear.
Repeated gripping can aggravate the discomfort without proving that it is the sole cause. Avoid forcing yourself to stop all activities in the hope of erasing a single cause. Tell the clinician about the other fingers affected, your known illnesses and the treatments already tried. This information can influence the choice between monitoring, splint, injection and intervention.
Chapter sources [1]
Which should not be considered as simple tendon catching
After a cut or blow, the new inability to bend or straighten a finger may indicate a tendon injury. Have it evaluated quickly. A small wound on the surface can reach a deeper structure. Do not start gripping exercises to test if the tendon is still working.
A very swollen, hot, red, and severely painful finger, with or without fever, requires same-day evaluation. An infection can progress quickly in the hand. A blocked finger that cannot be straightened easily also deserves a consultation without delay. Do not pull violently on it or try to puncture a nodule in the palm.
How the clinician confirms the hypothesis
The examination looks for the location of the catch and the mobility of the finger. The clinician also checks the joints, tendons and the possible presence of another condition. The story of the episodes counts, even if the finger does not block during the consultation.
In a typical presentation, an X-ray or MRI is not necessary for every person. An additional examination may be useful if the symptoms are atypical or if there is a traumatic context. The goal is to answer a specific question, not to multiply images. Ask how the diagnosis explains your symptoms and what signs would lead you to reconsider it.
Chapter sources [1]
Reduce irritating movements and try an splint
Temporarily reduce strong grips that cause the finger to snag: tool held for a long time, narrow handle or carrying a heavy bag in the fingers. A wider grip, two hands, or alternating tasks may help. Continue the movements that remain comfortable without trying to click.
A small splint can be suggested, especially at night, to limit the movement that causes the catching. Its choice and position depend on the finger. Fitting too tightly can irritate the skin or restrict circulation. Specify the trial duration and success criteria. Unattended immobilization for months is not a solution to be applied alone.
Chapter sources [1]
In everyday life
A tool that blocks your finger
Decrease
Reduce the strong and prolonged holds that cause the catching.
Adapt
Try a larger grip or alternate with a less demanding task.
Reassess
Note if the blocks become less frequent and keep a follow-up point.
Chapter sources [1]
Injection: benefits and limits
A corticosteroid injection near the sheath can reduce the catching and the pain. It does not work for everyone and its effect may be less favorable in certain situations, particularly with diabetes. Improvement may take time; the clinician specifies when to re-evaluate the situation.
Risks include transient pain and, more rarely, skin changes or other local complications. If you have diabetes, also discuss blood sugar monitoring. A second injection is sometimes considered, but it is not automatic. The choice depends on the response, the risks and the importance of the blockage in your daily life.
Chapter sources [1]
When a release is discussed
If the finger remains very bothersome or blocked despite appropriate options, the doctor may suggest releasing the pulley. The objective is to restore space to the tendon. The technique depends on the finger, the context and the experience of the team; Not all options fit every hand.
Ask about the expected benefits and risks, including infection, scar pain, stiffness or nerve damage. After the procedure, wound care and authorized movements must be explained. A disappearance of the catching does not necessarily mean that all force has returned immediately. Heavy holds and return to work follow individualized instructions.
Chapter sources [1]
Physiotherapy, work and daily actions
The physiotherapist can help preserve available mobility, adapt the grip and gradually return to activities, particularly after treatment. The exercises in our section should not force the finger to go through a painful blockage several times. A tightly squeezed ball is not a universal exercise for this problem.
When cooking or DIYing, avoid holding a small handle in a very tight fist for a long time. Allow breaks before the hand becomes very irritated. In the morning, start with gentle movements rather than forceful opening. If the finger remains stuck or your ability to work diminishes, request a reevaluation of the program.
Follow the progress
Some mild forms improve with time and adaptations; others require additional treatment. Track the frequency of blockages, pain and possible tasks. A favorable development may be a less difficult awakening or a grip that no longer repeatedly causes catching.
If the finger becomes stiffer, if it no longer straightens, or if several fingers begin to lock, seek medical advice again. After an operation, increasing swelling, a leaking wound, fever or loss of sensation requires rapid advice. The follow-up targets the function of the hand, without promising that the symptoms will disappear on the same date for everyone.
Your questions
Should you click your finger to soften it?
No. Repeating the painful passage does not constitute necessary rehabilitation. Favor movements that slide comfortably and seek advice if blocking becomes frequent. A stuck finger should not be straightened with violent traction.
Chapter sources [1]
Does trigger finger mean I have diabetes?
No. Diabetes is an associated factor, but many people with trigger finger do not have it. The doctor decides if other elements justify a check-up. The symptom alone does not allow this diagnosis to be made.
Chapter sources [1]
Can I use a strengthening ball?
Not if repeated squeezing triggers blockage or lasting worsening. Strength can be worked on at an appropriate time, with a suitable goal and dose. A program found for another hand condition is not automatically indicated.
Sources and references
- [1] BSSH: Trigger finger/thumb
- [2] BSSH: Extensor tendon injury
- [3] NHS: Animal and human bites
- [4] NHS: Wrist pain
- [5] NHS Inform: Exercises for wrist, hand and finger problems
- [6] BSSH: Dupuytren’s disease
- [7] CGDIS · Appeler le 112
Text updated on
Medical review: awaiting Hasib Selimovic.