Trigger Finger

Trigger Finger

Trigger finger is a disorder characterised by intermittent triggering or locking of the finger or thumb with or without pain, generally occurring in the palm at the level of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint. In most cases it is due to a non-inflammatory thickening of the digit’s A1 pulley with secondary entrapment and/or sometimes thickening of the tendon(s)/ inflammatory nodules; however the exact aetiology remains unclear.

Diagnosis

Initially made on the basis of clinical symptoms and physical examination

History;

Patients often present complaining of painful triggering of sticking of the finger on flexion or extension, with symptoms usually worse in the morning. It is more common in women than men and most common during the 5th or 6th decade.

Physical Examination

Palpation along the tendon, in particular at the level of the A1 pulley may reveal tenderness and/or swelling/ palpable nodule. 

Grinding or swelling may be felt on movement of the affected finger and triggering may be reproduced.