When it may be considered
- Persistent painful clicking or locking
- Symptoms that have not responded adequately to appropriate non-surgical treatment
- A digit that becomes fixed or significantly limits hand use
Hand surgery ↗
Specialist hand surgery
Trigger finger and thumb release
Releasing a narrowed tendon tunnel when painful clicking or locking persists.
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Understanding the procedure
What does treatment involve?
Trigger finger or trigger thumb occurs when a flexor tendon catches as it passes through a narrowed pulley at the base of the digit. This can cause pain, clicking, stiffness or locking. Surgical release widens the entrance to the tendon tunnel so the tendon can glide more freely.
Your treatment
- Confirmation that triggering is the cause of the symptoms
- Release of the affected pulley while protecting nearby nerves and tendons
- Early movement to encourage smooth tendon gliding
Recovery and rehabilitation
- Light use and finger movement are usually encouraged as advised
- The wound and scar may remain tender while healing
- Stiffness may require exercises or hand therapy
Your consultation
Assessment before recommendation.
Symptoms, examination findings, work, hobbies and the demands placed on your hand are considered together. Relevant imaging or nerve studies are reviewed where required.
You will receive a clear explanation of the available options, likely benefits, limitations, material risks and expected rehabilitation before deciding how to proceed.
Common questions
Useful information
01Must trigger finger always be treated surgically?+
No. Activity modification, splintage or steroid injection may be appropriate before surgery depending on the circumstances.
02Can more than one finger be affected?+
Yes. Triggering can affect a finger or thumb and may involve more than one digit.
03Can triggering recur?+
Recurrence after an adequate surgical release is uncommon, although stiffness or other hand conditions may continue to cause symptoms.
This information is general and does not replace an individual consultation. The most appropriate treatment and recovery plan depend on your diagnosis, examination findings and personal circumstances.
Private consultations
Begin with a conversation.
Discuss your symptoms and receive an individual assessment with clear, considered advice.
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