Hand procedure information

Trigger finger release

Trigger finger occurs when irritation and thickening of a tendon or tendon sheath causes a finger or thumb to catch, click or lock during movement. Symptoms may include pain, stiffness, tenderness in the palm and difficulty straightening the affected finger, particularly in the morning.

Assessment and diagnosis

Assessment begins with a discussion of symptoms, hand function, medical history and treatment goals, followed by examination of the hand and fingers. The diagnosis is usually made clinically, although imaging or additional investigations may occasionally be recommended depending on the presentation.

Non-surgical options

Non-operative treatment may include activity modification, splinting, hand therapy, anti-inflammatory medication or steroid injection. Some patients experience improvement with conservative management, while others continue to have painful triggering or locking symptoms.

Surgical treatment options

Trigger finger release surgery aims to allow the tendon to move more freely by releasing the tight pulley causing the triggering. The procedure is commonly performed as a day-case operation under local anaesthetic, although treatment plans and anaesthetic options vary between patients.

Recovery after treatment

Recovery varies between patients. Gentle finger movement is usually encouraged soon after surgery, although soreness, swelling or stiffness may occur during the early recovery period. The wound usually takes around 2 weeks to heal, and patients are typically advised not to do heavy activities on this hand for 4 weeks. Specific advice regarding wound care, work, driving and return to activities is provided following treatment.

Risks and considerations

All surgical procedures carry risks. Potential risks of trigger finger release surgery may include infection, bleeding, scar tenderness, stiffness, complex pain, nerve irritation or damage, persistent triggering, or recurrence of symptoms. Specific risks and expected outcomes are discussed during consultation.

Frequently asked questions