Explore the underlying causes, warning signs, and holistic treatment options for trigger finger, empowering you to make informed choices for long-term hand health and function.
Trigger finger, medically known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition that affects the flexor tendons in the fingers or thumb. This disorder causes the affected finger to catch or lock in a bent position before suddenly releasing—much like pulling and releasing a trigger. Over time, this can make everyday tasks difficult, causing discomfort and frustration.
The underlying issue lies in the inflammation or thickening of the tendon sheath, which narrows the space through which the tendons glide. As a result, normal finger movement becomes restricted, leading to the classic triggering sensation.
The hallmark symptom of trigger finger is a noticeable popping or clicking when moving the finger. In the early stages, you may observe stiffness, especially upon waking in the morning, or mild tenderness at the base of the affected digit. Swelling, a palpable nodule, and pain when gripping objects are also common.
As the condition progresses, the finger may remain bent and require manual straightening. Without proper care, the affected finger can become locked in a flexed position, significantly impacting hand function and quality of life.
Trigger finger can impact anyone, but it tends to be more common in individuals who perform repetitive hand movements or gripping actions. This includes people whose work or hobbies involve tools, musical instruments, or manual labor. Individuals with certain health conditions—such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid disorders—are also at an increased risk due to underlying inflammation or metabolic changes.
Women, particularly those between the ages of 40 and 60, are statistically more likely to experience trigger finger. Understanding individual risk factors can help with early identification and prevention strategies.
Conventional treatment for trigger finger often begins with rest, splinting, and anti-inflammatory medications. Steroid injections can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation in the tendon sheath. In persistent or severe cases, minor surgical procedures may be recommended to release the constricted tendon and restore smooth movement.
Beyond traditional approaches, advanced therapies such as regenerative medicine, targeted physical therapy, and low-force manual techniques are gaining popularity. These options focus on reducing inflammation, promoting natural healing, and preserving hand function without invasive interventions.
At Lazar Spinal Care, we recognize that trigger finger is not just a localized finger problem—it often reflects underlying tension and imbalances throughout the body, including the spine and nervous system. Our gentle, non-invasive QSM3 upper cervical chiropractic technique helps release tension patterns, optimize nervous system function, and restore balance to the musculoskeletal system, which can positively influence hand and finger health.
We complement our chiropractic care with advanced therapies such as SoftWave TRT for tissue regeneration, High-Intensity Laser Therapy to accelerate healing, and BEMER Therapy to improve microcirculation. Our team also provides personalized ergonomic advice and wellness strategies to minimize recurrence. Through The Lazar Method™, we empower our patients to achieve long-lasting relief and regain optimal hand function without drugs or surgery.