Trigger Finger

Trigger finger is a condition affecting tendons that flex the fingers and thumb, typically resulting in a sensation of locking or catching when you bend and straighten your digits. Other symptoms may include pain and stiffness.

The tendon sheath attaches to the finger or thumb bones and keeps the flexor tendon in place as it moves to flex the digit. The A1 pulley is near the opening of the tendon sheath where the digit meets the palm.

Nonsurgical Treatment

Initial treatment for a trigger finger is usually nonsurgical.

• Rest. 
• Splinting. 
• Exercises. 
• Medications. nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Steroid injections.

Surgical Treatment

If your trigger finger does not get better with nonsurgical treatment, you may wish to consider surgery.

During trigger release surgery, the A1 pulley is cut (dotted blue line).