​Trigger finger is a common but often misunderstood hand condition that affects how the finger moves and can interfere with everyday tasks. At Reach Sports Physiotherapy & Hand Clinic in Edmonton, the team specializes in upper extremity injuries and provides thorough assessment and evidence-based treatment to help clients recover efficiently and prevent recurrence.
What Is Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger occurs when a flexor tendon in the hand becomes inflamed, forming a nodule within the tendon sheath. As the finger bends or straightens, that nodule catches on the sheath, producing the characteristic popping or locking sensation. Two flexor tendons control each finger, and identifying which one is affected is essential to guiding treatment.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms can range from mild to significantly disabling.
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Common signs include:
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A clicking, popping, or catching sensation when bending or straightening the finger
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A palpable nodule in the palm at the base of the affected finger
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Stiffness, particularly in the morning
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Pain with movement or direct pressure
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The finger locking in a bent position
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Trigger finger can affect any finger, but is most commonly seen in the middle finger or thumb.
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What Causes Trigger Finger?
The condition is frequently associated with repetitive gripping, twisting motions, or prolonged typing. Direct pressure to the palm over time can also contribute. In some cases, an underlying medical condition such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis increases susceptibility. Pregnancy is another known contributing factor.
Why Professional Assessment Matters
Each finger has flexor tendons that create movement at the large, middle, and small knuckles. Determining which joint produces the clicking is critical because the splint must be positioned precisely to prevent triggering and allow the tendon to heal. A thorough assessment with a certified hand therapist makes that determination possible.
Splinting: Your First Line of Treatment
Splinting is the recommended first line of treatment for trigger finger. A custom splint, molded directly to the client's hand, offers a superior fit compared to prefabricated options; it is lightweight, waterproof, and designed to address the client's specific triggering pattern. Splints are typically worn continuously, unless the therapist advises otherwise, to eliminate the clicking during the initial healing phase.
How Long Does Healing Take?
Recovery time varies depending on symptom severity. Splinting may be required anywhere from three weeks to several months. Early intervention consistently leads to shorter treatment periods and better outcomes, which is why prompt assessment is encouraged.
The Risks of Delaying Treatment
Ignoring trigger finger allows inflammation to accumulate. Over time, the affected finger can become permanently fixed in a bent position, at which point surgical release may be the only viable option. Early conservative management is far preferable to reaching that point.
Pediatric and Congenital Trigger Finger
Trigger finger is not exclusive to adults. Young children can be born with congenital trigger finger, which often does not resolve on its own and frequently requires surgical release. Parents who notice a child's finger locking or not straightening fully should seek an assessment promptly.
Managing Inflammation with Your Doctor
A corticosteroid injection, administered by a physician, can reduce inflammation and support faster recovery when used alongside splinting. Hand therapists at Reach Sports Physiotherapy & Hand Clinic cannot administer or refer for injections, so clients are encouraged to speak with their family doctor about this option. The two approaches work well in combination.
Recover from Trigger Finger with Reach Sports Physiotherapy & Hand Clinic
A trigger finger diagnosis can catch people off guard, especially when a small amount of inflammation leads to pain, stiffness, and a finger that clicks or locks with everyday movement. Getting the right assessment early makes a meaningful difference in how quickly and fully the condition resolves.
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At Reach Sports Physiotherapy & Hand Clinic in Edmonton, clients receive one-on-one, evidence-based care tailored to their specific symptoms and recovery goals. Custom thermoplastic splints are molded directly to each client's hand, providing a precise, comfortable fit that supports healing without getting in the way of daily life. Contact us or schedule an appointment online to take the first step toward resolving trigger finger.
FAQ's
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If you're seeking expert hand therapy in and around Edmonton, AB, Reach Sports Physiotherapy and Hand Clinic is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward improving your hand health and function.
