Trigger Finger
When a finger catches, locks, or snaps as you bend it, trigger finger may be the cause. The Joint and Bone Institute of California offers trigger finger treatment that starts with non-surgical care and turns to a quick procedure only when needed.
What is trigger finger?
Trigger finger happens when the tendon that bends your finger becomes irritated and swollen where it passes through a narrow tunnel called the A1 pulley (tendon sheath). As the inflamed tendon struggles to glide smoothly, the finger can catch, lock in a bent position, or snap straight — the “triggering” that gives the condition its name. At the Joint and Bone Institute of California, our hand specialists pinpoint the cause and tailor trigger finger treatment to you.
Symptoms of trigger finger.
- A finger that catches or locks when you bend or straighten it
- A painful clicking or popping sensation with movement
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- A tender bump or nodule at the base of the finger or thumb
- A finger that stays stuck in a bent position in more severe cases
Non-surgical trigger finger treatment first.
Many cases improve without surgery. We exhaust conservative options before considering a procedure, including:
- Resting the finger and modifying activities that aggravate it
- A splint to keep the finger from curling, often worn at night
- Anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling
- Gentle stretching to maintain motion
- Steroid injections into the tendon sheath to calm inflammation
When a procedure is needed.
If the finger keeps catching or locking despite conservative care, a quick procedure called a trigger finger release opens the A1 pulley so the tendon can glide freely again. It’s typically an outpatient procedure, and most patients go home the same day and recover quickly. Our team will explain exactly what to expect before, during, and after.
Don’t wait until the finger locks for good — early trigger finger treatment is simpler and more effective. Call (661) 544-3352 to schedule an appointment.
Get your finger moving freely again.
The Joint and Bone Institute of California treats trigger finger in Bakersfield and across the Central Valley. Call today to schedule your consultation.
