Trigger Finger Trigger Finger T rigger finger is a common problem which causes locking and clicking of the finger. There is tenderness in the palm and movement of the finger, especially straightening, can be quite painful.
Some people have to use their other hand to straighten a trigger finger when it locks.
A trigger finger is caused by thickening or swelling of the lining of the flexor tendon. This pinches the tendon and prevents normal smooth gliding. When the tendon is too swollen to fit back into its tunnel, the tendon gets stuck and locks or clicks. I nitial treatment consists of rest, modification of activity, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication and a cortisone injection. If this fails, a surgical release of the trigger finger is successful at alleviating the problem.