Is Your Finger Locking Up? Here's What You Need to Know!
Is Your Finger Locking Up? Here's What You Need to Know!
The Big Picture
If your finger is snapping, clicking, or locking, it might be a sign of trigger finger. Let's explore these symptoms and what they mean.
Contents
- Common Symptoms of Trigger Finger
- Why Does It Hurt?
- Complications to Watch For
Common Symptoms of Trigger Finger
People with trigger finger often notice a snapping or clicking sound when moving their finger. This might start as painless but can become uncomfortable over time. You may find it hard to straighten your finger, and it might lock in a bent position, especially in the morning.
Why Does It Hurt?
The pain usually centers around the base of your finger and can spread into your palm. This happens because the tendon struggles to move smoothly, causing irritation. Some people even wake up with their finger locked, requiring gentle manipulation to straighten it out.
Complications to Watch For
In severe cases, avoiding movement due to pain can lead to stiffness in your finger joints. This might cause lasting problems if not addressed. Multiple fingers can be affected, making daily tasks more challenging.
FAQs
What does trigger finger feel like?
It feels like your finger is snapping or clicking when you move it.
Where is the pain located?
Pain is usually at the base of the finger and can spread to the palm.
Can trigger finger affect more than one finger?
Yes, multiple fingers can be affected simultaneously.
Does it only happen in the morning?
It can happen anytime but is often worse in the morning.
Wrapping Up
Recognizing symptoms early can lead to effective treatment and relief.
Additional References
- McAuliffe JA. Tendon disorders of the hand and wrist. J Hand Surg Am 2010; 35:846.
- Makkouk AH, Oetgen ME, Swigart CR, Dodds SD. Trigger finger: etiology, evaluation, and treatment. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med 2008; 1:92.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.