Trigger Finger
Trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis of the hand)
Understanding trigger finger
Trigger finger happens when one of the tendons that bends a finger catches as it glides through a snug pulley at the base of the finger (in the palm). The tendon or its sheath gets thickened or irritated, so the finger clicks, catches, or even locks bent. It''s common — often with repetitive gripping — and the great majority settle with conservative care: resting the catching, keeping the tendon gliding, and easing the aggravating gripping, which is what this program supports.
The reassuring outlook
Many trigger fingers calm down with a splint that rests the finger straight (especially at night), gentle tendon gliding, and easing repetitive gripping. If it''s persistent, a steroid injection is a common and effective next step your care team can discuss. Most people get back to smooth, catch-free movement.
What you might be feeling
Trigger finger often brings clicking, catching, or locking of a finger — frequently worse in the morning — a tender bump at the base of the finger in the palm, and stiffness. It usually eases as the tendon settles and glides freely again. If anything new or unexpected comes up, or you''re unsure how you''re doing, your care team is the best place to check.
The key: rest the catching + keep it gliding
Two things help most: a splint that keeps the affected finger straight (especially at night) breaks the catching cycle and lets the irritated tendon settle; and gentle tendon gliding keeps the tendon moving smoothly so it doesn''t stiffen. Easing the sustained, hard gripping that aggravates it does the rest.
How this program is built
It leads with tendon gliding and gentle finger motion alongside the splint and activity changes, then adds gentle finger and hand strengthening as the catching settles. Keep the movements smooth and comfortable — don''t force a catching finger through the lock. Let comfort guide the pace.
Staying comfortable day to day
A splint that holds the finger straight, especially overnight, is one of the most effective simple measures. During the day, ease off sustained hard gripping (tools, steering wheel grips), use built-up or padded grips, and take breaks. Keep the finger gently gliding rather than letting it stiffen.
When it flares
When the catching increases: use the splint (especially at night), ease the gripping that aggravates it, keep the gentle gliding going, and discuss an injection with your care team if it''s persistent. Flares usually settle with resting the catching cycle.
Tracking how you''re doing
Your quick daily check-in gives you and your care team a shared view of how things are trending — a simple way to see progress and keep your care team in the loop. It is not a monitoring or warning system.
This guide is general education, not medical advice, and doesn't replace evaluation by a licensed provider. For urgent symptoms, contact your care team or call 911.