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Trigger finger

What is trigger finger?

Trigger finger – also known as stenosing tenosynovitis – is a condition that causes one of your fingers to get stuck in a bent condition. It is caused by inflammation, which narrows the space in the sheath surrounding the tendon. Your finger may bend or straighten with a snap or may become completely locked in a bent position.

The condition is more common in women and people whose jobs or leisure pursuits require them to make repeated gripping motions.

It can affect any finger, as well as the thumb, and more than one finger can be affected at the same time. It is normally worse in the morning.

What causes trigger finger?

The sheath that surrounds the tendon in the affected finger becomes irritated or inflamed which prevents the tendon from sliding smoothly through the sheath and causes it to stick. If the irritation is prolonged it can produce thickening, scarring and the formation of nodules on the tendon which makes it even more difficult for the tendon to move smoothly. Certain factors can increase the risk of developing the condition, including:

  • Activities that involve prolonged gripping and repetitive hand use
  • Health conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis

Trigger finger

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