Medical conditions
By clicking on one of the orange dots, you can identify some of the conditions you may be experiencing. Please note that this tool does not replace the advice of one of our physiotherapists.
Trigger finger
Stenosing tenosynovitis, commonly known as trigger finger, involves the flexor tendons of the fingers.
Trigger finger occurs when the tendon develops a nodule or swelling of the surrounding sheath. As the tendon swells, it increases in volume and, when moving, has to rub against the entrance of the flexor tendon sheath. This causes pain, catching and a sensation of the finger getting stuck.
When the tendon rubs against the sheath, more inflammation and swelling are produced. This creates a vicious cycle of triggering, inflammation and oedema, which in some cases can lead to locking, making it impossible to bend or straighten the affected finger.
Trigger finger may begin as mild discomfort felt at the base of the finger, and a thickening may be felt in that area. When the finger starts to lock and causes the catching or triggering sensation, the problem may appear at the proximal interphalangeal joint of the finger.
