Trigger Finger Treatment
Expert Care for Locked or Painful Fingers
Trigger finger is a common condition that can make everyday tasks unexpectedly difficult. You may notice a finger clicking, catching, locking, or remaining bent, particularly in the morning or after periods of activity. For some, this may be a mild irritation, but for others, it can significantly limit hand function and cause ongoing discomfort.
At UK Hand and Wrist Surgery, we understand how frustrating and disruptive this condition can be. That’s why we offer tailored trigger finger treatment designed to restore movement, relieve pain and support long-term hand health. Led by Specialist Hand Surgeon Mr Patrick Goon, our team provides personalised care using advanced techniques to help you regain comfort and confidence in your hand function.
What Is Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger – clinically known as stenosing tenosynovitis – occurs when the tendon, or tendon sheath/and pulley, that controls finger movement becomes inflamed or irritated. This inflammation can cause the tendon to thicken or develop a nodule, and the sheath pulley to thicken and constrict, causing the tendon to ‘catch’ and stop it from gliding smoothly through the tendon sheath. The result is a catching or locking sensation when trying to straighten the affected finger or thumb. As the condition progresses, it may actually become stuck, resulting in a chronically bent or even straight finger.
Although any finger can be affected, the ring finger and thumb are most commonly involved. The condition can occur in one or multiple fingers and may affect both hands.
Common Symptoms of Trigger Finger
Identifying the signs of trigger finger early can help prevent the condition from worsening. Symptoms may include:
- A finger or thumb that clicks, catches, or locks when moved
- Stiffness in the finger, especially in the morning
- Pain or tenderness at the base of the affected finger or thumb
- A noticeable lump (tendon nodule) in the palm
- Difficulty straightening the finger without assistance
- In more advanced cases, the finger may become stuck in a bent position
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek advice from a specialist to avoid further loss of movement or tendon function.
Painful finger locking is a common symptom that can be effectively managed with the right trigger finger treatment plan.
Causes and Risk Factors
Trigger finger is often the result of repetitive hand movements or strain on the flexor tendons, particularly in people whose work or hobbies involve gripping or using tools. Other contributing factors include:
- Tendon sheath inflammation
- Underlying health conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis
- Prolonged or forceful hand use
- Ageing, which may reduce tendon flexibility
- Previous hand or finger injuries
Understanding the underlying cause helps us tailor the treatment to your individual needs.
Diagnosing Trigger Finger
A precise diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. At UK Hand and Wrist Surgery, your consultation will typically include:
- Detailed Clinical Assessment: We examine finger movement, assess areas of tenderness and evaluate whether the finger locks during motion.
- Review of Medical History: Certain conditions like diabetes or inflammatory arthritis may influence your treatment plan.
- Imaging if Required: While trigger finger is often diagnosed clinically, ultrasound may occasionally be used to confirm tendon sheath thickening or nodules.
This comprehensive approach ensures that we recommend the most appropriate and effective treatment.
Trigger Finger Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatments
In many cases, early or mild symptoms can be managed without surgery. Non-surgical approaches may include:
- Activity Modification: Reducing repetitive hand use or avoiding aggravating tasks.
- Splinting: Wearing a finger splint, especially at night, to keep the finger straight and reduce tendon irritation.
- Anti-inflammatory medication: To help manage swelling and discomfort.
- Targeted hand therapy: Gentle stretching and movement exercises under the guidance of a hand therapist can reduce stiffness and improve range of motion.
- Chiropractic massage and manipulation: in some cases, these techniques can dramatically improve symptoms
These approaches can be effective in relieving symptoms, particularly in early-stage trigger finger.
Surgical Treatment
If conservative treatment does not relieve symptoms or if the finger becomes permanently locked, surgical intervention may be advised. Surgery is typically a day procedure performed under local anaesthetic. Options include:
- Percutaneous Trigger Finger Release: A minimally invasive technique that releases the tight portion of the tendon sheath through a small puncture. A new and promising procedure that requires no sutures after, with a fast recovery time of a few days. The surgical technique used is the Spirecut
- Open Trigger Finger Release: A small incision is made in the palm to directly access and release the constricted tendon sheath. This does require suture closure.
Both procedures aim to restore smooth tendon movement and allow the finger to move freely again. Surgery is often followed by a short period of hand therapy to ensure optimal recovery.
Specialist-led trigger finger treatment can improve grip strength and reduce tendon discomfort.
Benefits of Early Intervention
Timely treatment of trigger finger can:
- Relieve finger pain and stiffness
- Restore full finger movement
- Prevent permanent tendon or joint damage
- Reduce the risk of needing more invasive surgery
- Support faster return to normal hand function
Recovery and Aftercare
Following trigger finger treatment, whether surgical or non-surgical, aftercare plays a key role in achieving a successful outcome. Your recovery plan may include:
- Finger exercises to maintain flexibility and strength
- Monitoring for any signs of recurrence
- Wound care and dressing changes (after surgery)
- Follow-up appointments with Mr Goon to assess recovery progress
Most clients experience noticeable improvement almost immediately, with many returning to normal hand use shortly after treatment.
Why Choose UK Hand and Wrist Surgery?
At UK Hand and Wrist Surgery, we specialise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of finger and hand conditions. With years of experience in trigger finger treatment, Mr Patrick Goon leads a dedicated team focused on restoring comfort, strength and movement to your hand. He is also an advocate of minimally invasive Spirecut procedures, which is a novel, exciting, game-changing technique of performing trigger release under ultrasound guidance, and is amongst the first in the UK to adopt this new procedure. ( Please refer to the official Spirecut website to learn more.
We combine advanced surgical techniques with individualised care plans to ensure the best possible outcomes for every client. Whether you’re managing early symptoms or require surgical release, we’re here to support your recovery every step of the way.
Meet Mr Patrick Goon
Mr Goon, a highly trained Specialist Hand Surgeon, leads our clinic with expertise and a commitment to excellence in care. His experience spans a range of simple to complex procedures, from carpal tunnel release to wrist fusion and tendon repair. His focus on minimally invasive techniques supports optimal recovery and reduces post-operative discomfort, ensuring patients achieve the best possible outcomes.
Book an Appointment with Mr Goon
If you are suffering from a hand or wrist problem, please use the online form to contact us and arrange an appointment with Mr Goon. Alternatively, you can call us on 07355 571488 or email us at enquiries@handwristsurgery.co.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes trigger finger in adults?
Trigger finger often develops due to repeated hand use, inflammation of the tendon sheath, or underlying conditions such as diabetes or arthritis. It’s more common in adults aged 40–60.
Can trigger finger go away without surgery?
Yes, mild cases can improve with rest, splinting, anti-inflammatory treatments, and even chiropractic treatments. Surgery is usually only recommended if symptoms persist or worsen over time.
When should I see a specialist for trigger finger?
If your finger locks, clicks regularly, or causes ongoing pain despite rest, it’s best to seek specialist trigger finger treatment to prevent long-term issues.
How long is recovery after trigger finger surgery?
Most people regain normal finger movement almost immediately. Full recovery can vary depending on the severity of the condition and post-surgical care. Recovery time is markedly reduced if percutaneous surgery is performed.
Is trigger finger a sign of arthritis?
While not always linked, trigger finger is more common in individuals with inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. A proper diagnosis can help determine the cause.
Can physiotherapy help with trigger finger?
Yes, targeted hand therapy can support recovery, improve flexibility and reduce stiffness, especially when used alongside other non-surgical treatments.
What Our Patients Say
Written by a NHS patient at Lister Hospital
5th July 2024
I managed to dislocate one knuckle and badly break another knuckle in the same finger into multiple pieces, an injury which every Healthcare Professional that saw the X-ray told me was not only severe damage but also a particularly rare injury. Mr Goon and his team screwed the knuckle back together, which was particularly fiddly given the multiple small pieces.
After the operation I was given a number of exercises which were progressively added to over a series of regular appointments, both with Mr Goon and multiple Hand Therapists, to check and monitor my progress. I followed their instructions as closely as I could, both in frequency of exercising and how far to push the injury (I did want to actually recover fully after all, so why would I have not listened to the experts!), even though this was sometimes inconvenient or sore.
I’m delighted to say that I now have full use and movement of the finger and a scar which is unnoticeable unless you look very closely for it. Mr Goon and his team are all a credit to the NHS, not only due to their expertise, but all kept a very friendly and positive attitude at all times not just about the potential recovery but also with their general demeanor, were always supportive and happy to answer any question I had, even if I was worried they may have been obvious answers, and were always clear about the next steps I needed to take.
It’s also worth mentioning for anyone that may be critical of the NHS which is clearly currently under intense pressure based on the number of patients in the Hospital ever time I went in, I sustained the injury on a Wednesday evening, had the dislocation sorted at a Hospital walk-in clinic within 1.5 hours and had met the surgeon, gone through the options and procedure and was in surgery by Saturday morning. Mr Goon even came to see me himself and tell me how the procedure had gone as soon as I was fully awake. This shows what an amazing service the NHS actually provides, and I didn’t have to pay a penny.
The whole experience has far exceeded my expectations and I can only thank Mr Goon and his entire team for the amazing work that they have done to ensure my full recovery.
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Written by a NHS patient at Lister Hospital
3rd October 2024
I had an accident at work that led to part of my finger being cut off. Mr. Goon has been treating me, and thanks to his skill, I’ve actually got that part of my finger back, including the nail. Honestly didn’t think that’d be possible, especially not so soon. I’m really grateful to have had such a great doctor during such a rough time. It couldn’t have gone better. Joe Efford
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Written by a NHS patient at Lister Hospital
10th October 2024
I saw Dr Goon following an accident with a horse which resulted in numerous breakages in my thumb. Having had numerous visits and having experienced terrible pain I was not sure if Doctor Goon could help. How wrong I was, he was extremely good in every aspect of his work getting my pain under control pretty quickly. He reassured me, listening to my concerns and always made me feel completely at ease. He has a very positive attitude at all times with every visit exceeding my expectations. I will require further surgery but I am not concerned as I cannot fault the care from Mr Goon and his great team to date. I know I will be in safe hands. He is indeed “The Miracle Man”.
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