Musculoskeletal
Medicines for Trigger finger
A finger or thumb that catches, clicks or locks when bent, because a tendon cannot glide smoothly — often improving with rest, splinting, a steroid injection, or a small operation.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Trigger finger?
Trigger finger occurs when one of the tendons that bend a finger or thumb cannot glide smoothly through its surrounding sheath, usually because of swelling or a small nodule. The finger then catches or clicks as it bends and straightens, and can lock in a bent position, sometimes needing the other hand to straighten it.
- How it is treated: Treatment depends on how troublesome it is.
- Self-care: Resting the hand from repetitive gripping, using a splint as advised (particularly overnight), gentle finger movement exercises, and managing diabetes where relevant can all help settle symptoms.
- When to seek help: See a GP if a finger catches, locks or is painful and does not settle with rest and splinting, so treatment options such as a steroid injection or minor surgery can be discussed.
What it is
Trigger finger occurs when one of the tendons that bend a finger or thumb cannot glide smoothly through its surrounding sheath, usually because of swelling or a small nodule. The finger then catches or clicks as it bends and straightens, and can lock in a bent position, sometimes needing the other hand to straighten it. There may be tenderness or a small lump at the base of the finger in the palm. It is more common in women, in people with diabetes, and after repetitive gripping. It can affect one or more fingers and, while not dangerous, can be uncomfortable and limit hand use.
How it is treated
Treatment depends on how troublesome it is. Mild cases may settle with rest, avoiding aggravating gripping activities, and splinting the finger to limit the catching, especially at night. A steroid injection into the tendon sheath is often effective and is a common next step. If the problem persists or keeps returning, a small operation to release the tight part of the tendon sheath usually cures it. The approach is chosen with the person, and most people get good relief.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Trigger finger
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
Resting the hand from repetitive gripping, using a splint as advised (particularly overnight), gentle finger movement exercises, and managing diabetes where relevant can all help settle symptoms.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
See a GP if a finger catches, locks or is painful and does not settle with rest and splinting, so treatment options such as a steroid injection or minor surgery can be discussed.
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Trigger finger: frequently asked questions
What causes trigger finger?
It happens when a finger tendon cannot glide smoothly through its sheath, usually from swelling or a small nodule. It is more common in women, people with diabetes, and after repetitive gripping.
How is trigger finger treated?
Options include rest and splinting, a steroid injection (often effective), and, if it persists, a small operation to release the tendon sheath, which usually cures it.
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Trigger finger
- British Society for Surgery of the Hand guidance
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