Trigger Finger
A finger that clicks, catches or locks when you bend it — what it is, why it happens, and how we can help.
Trigger finger happens when a tendon in your finger or thumb can't glide smoothly through its sheath, so the finger catches, clicks or locks as you bend it.
It's a common and very treatable hand problem. Many cases improve with simple measures or a single injection, and even when surgery is needed it's a small, well-established procedure.
Symptoms of trigger finger.
They often come on gradually — and the catching tends to be worse first thing in the morning.
Why it happens.
Often there's no single cause. The tendon sheath becomes inflamed and narrowed, so the tendon catches as it passes through. Some things make it more likely.
Don't wait for it to settle.
Early assessment helps you get the right treatment sooner. See a specialist if:
Diagnosed by a simple clinical examination.
Trigger finger is diagnosed in clinic by a consultant, by examining your hand and watching the finger move — no scans or nerve tests are usually needed. Mr Preetham Kodumuri, Consultant Hand & Wrist Surgeon, will confirm the diagnosis and talk you through the options at your appointment.
How trigger finger is treated.
We start with the least invasive option that's likely to work for you.
Easing off the movements that aggravate it, with a small splint to rest the finger, can settle milder cases.
A targeted injection to calm the inflamed tendon sheath — often all that's needed, and a good next step if simple measures aren't enough.
A small day-case operation to open the tight sheath so the tendon glides freely again, when injections haven't resolved it.
A minimally invasive release through a tiny opening, with your consultant advising whether it's the right approach for you.
Seen in days — not months on a list.
A named specialist, not a junior — all the way through.
Every price published and confirmed in writing.
Seen privately, without the wait.
We bill major UK insurers directly.
Will trigger finger go away on its own? +
Mild cases can settle with rest and avoiding the movements that aggravate it. But if it keeps catching, locking or hurting, it usually needs treatment rather than waiting it out.
Does a steroid injection work for trigger finger? +
For many people a single injection settles the problem and often no further treatment is needed. If symptoms come back or don't respond, your consultant will discuss a release.
How much does trigger finger treatment cost? +
A steroid injection starts from £350 (one finger), and a single-finger release is £1,900 open or £2,500 keyhole. An initial consultation with the consultant is £200. Every price is published upfront.
Can I have more than one finger treated? +
Yes — more than one finger or thumb can be affected, and we can discuss treating them together at your assessment.
Don't put up with it.
Book an assessment with a consultant and get a clear picture — and a plan.