Introduction
Trigger finger is an annoying or painful clicking sensation of the fingers or thumb.
Causes
Trigger finger is caused by the flexor tendons becoming compressed within the fibrous tunnel (flexor sheath) they pass through in the digits. This can lead to swelling and inflammation of the tendons with become thickened and lumpy.
Symptoms
Sometimes the main feature of trigger finger or trigger thumb is pain on the palm side of the digit extending into the palm itself, made worse by movement. Often this is accompanied by a painful ‘click’ sensation as the swollen tendon finally makes it through the tight tendon sheath.
Tests / Diagnosis
Usually the diagnosis can be made clinically by examination but sometimes an ultrasound scan can be helpful to confirm a trigger digit.