Trigger finger and thumb

STENOSING TENOSYNOVITIS OR STENOSING TENOVAGINOSIS


If you're having trouble bending your finger or thumb because of a swollen tendon, we can help

Enquiries & Appointments

What is trigger finger and thumb?

If one or more of the tendons in your hands become swollen or inflamed, you may find it difficult to bend your fingers or thumb, or they may lock. This condition is called trigger finger (or thumb).

Need to know

Common symptoms of trigger finger and thumb include: 

  • pain at the base of the affected finger or thumb when you move it
  • stiffness or ‘locking’ of a finger or thumb during movement.

Your consultant will discuss your symptoms with you and help to make a diagnosis.

Your consultant will discuss your treatment options with you. They might include:

  • Splinting. This involves strapping the affected finger to a plastic splint to reduce movement.
  • Steroid injections. These are effective in the majority of people, although not everyone is ͚cured͛ permanently.
  • Surgery. This minor procedure involves releasing the affected sheath (tendon tunnel). This will allow your finger to move freely again.

Our Trigger finger and thumb consultants

Dr Oliver Guttmann

Dr Oliver Guttmann

Cardiology

Mr Christian Brown

Mr Christian Brown

Urology

Mr Tev Aho

Mr Tev Aho

Urology

Dr Oliver Segal

Dr Oliver Segal

Cardiology

Our Trigger finger and thumb locations

Institute of Sport Exercise and Health (ISEH)

Institute of Sport Exercise and Health (ISEH)

170 Tottenham Court Road W1T 7HA London
The Shard Outpatients

The Shard Outpatients

The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London
Chiswick Outpatients

Chiswick Outpatients

Bond House 347-353 Chiswick High Road W4 4HS London
Chelsea Outpatients

Chelsea Outpatients

280 King's Road SW3 5AW London
The Princess Grace Hospital Outpatients

The Princess Grace Hospital Outpatients

30 Devonshire Street W1G 6PU London
Golders Green Outpatients

Golders Green Outpatients

Golders Green Outpatients and Diagnostic Centre NW11 9PY London
The Wellington Hospital Outpatients

The Wellington Hospital Outpatients

15 - 17 Lodge Road NW8 7JA London

Patient stories

This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.