Trigger finger release
Trigger finger is an uncomfortable condition in which a digit catches, clicks and becomes stiff and difficult to move. Trigger finger is painful and can affect the function of your hand.
Quick facts
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Get seen and treated within 14 days
What is it for?
Treatment for the inflammation of tendons in the fingers
Treatment overview
Trigger finger or stenosing tenosynovitis is a condition in which one or more of the tendons in the fingers or thumbs become inflamed.
They can't slide smoothly within their fibrous sheath, and it becomes progressively more difficult to move and bend the digit.
The thumb or finger can become stuck in the bent position, then suddenly pop free with a click.
The thumb, ring finger and little finger are more at risk of trigger finger. As the condition develops, it can restrict movement and make it difficult to use your hand effectively.
The London Clinic provides expert assessment of hand problems and the latest surgical techniques to reduce pain, release trigger finger and restore function.
The London Clinic’s specialist surgeons work in state-of-the-art operating theatres.
They are assisted by an expert multidisciplinary team to support you during treatment and throughout your rehabilitation.
Why choose The London Clinic
Excellence in one place
We operate as teams of experts with world-class resources dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of medical care. You are surrounded by the latest treatments and advice with everything you need to get back to your best health.
Personal care, every time
Exceptional patient care is a way of life for us. Our nurses, clinicians and support teams are dedicated to the care of a very small number of patients, so have more time for you. They’ll be with you every step of the way, tailoring your care around you and giving the peace-of-mind that comes with knowing you’re in the best hands.
Effortlessly simple
We work together as one to guide you through each step of your experience, with complexities unravelled and answers readily to hand. Your personal treatment plan will be laid out for you, with all the details taken care of so you can focus on you.
What's included in your package?
Choosing The London Clinic means your treatment plan will be laid out for you, with all the details taken care of so you can focus on you.
Your treatment package will include:
- Enhanced pre-admission assessment
- Your treatment with our complete care team at your fingertips
- Personalised aftercare and follow-up
We want you to be in control of your health. That’s why we also offer optional services such as comprehensive recovery packages and extra touches for you to choose from during your stay with us.
How to pay
- You can use private medical insurance (PMI) to access this treatment. We work with all major PMI providers in the UK and many internationally
- You can pay for yourself (self-pay)
- If you’re paying for yourself, we have finance options available with Chrysalis
FAQs
Not everyone with trigger finger needs surgery. The condition can settle without treatment, and conservative treatments can also ease discomfort and free-up movement.
The London Clinic offers comprehensive care for trigger finger. Treatment options include:
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Rest and movement modification
- Splints to support the finger
- Steroid injections to decrease swelling and inflammation
The London Clinic provides expert assessment and investigation of your hand so that you can access the best treatment to resolve your symptoms.
Our experienced surgeons will assess and advise you in The London Clinic’s comfortable and well-equipped consulting rooms.
They will take a detailed medical history, examine your hand, and ask about the impact your symptoms have on your wellbeing and function.
They may arrange investigations in the cutting-edge imaging suite. These could include:
- X-ray
- Blood tests to look for other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes
In consultation with you, they will then plan your surgery. They will take the time to answer all your questions and address any concerns.
Most people can go home on the day of surgery. The London Clinic's team will provide support as you recover and arrange follow-up to assess your progress.
Your consultant will tell you when it is safe to get back to work and normal activities. Most people with a non-physical, desk job can return to work straight away.
However, people who perform manual work may need four weeks to rest and recover.
Pain is usually minimal; taking regular over-the-counter painkillers can help relieve any discomfort.
The surgeon will monitor your progress and may recommend specialist physiotherapy, particularly if you had significant stiffness and movement restriction before surgery.
The London Clinic team will always be on hand if you have any problems or worries.
Yes, the condition can settle without surgery. Rest, anti-inflammatories, splints and steroid injections can help ease symptoms and reduce triggering.
All surgery has risks. The surgeons and The London Clinic team are dedicated to reducing complications and helping your recovery.
Problems with pain, bleeding, scarring, and infection can happen after any operation.
Specific issues with trigger finger surgery are uncommon. They include recurrence of the problem, nerve damage, stiffness and ongoing pain. Speak to your surgeon if you have any concerns.
They will always take time to discuss the pros and cons of the procedure and answer any questions.
Your surgeon will let you know when you can drive. In general, you can start when you feel it's safe.
Usually, this is 3 to 5 days after surgery. People who have had minimally-invasive surgery typically recover more quickly.