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Trigger Finger Physiotherapy in Richmond
See below how Richmond Physiotherapist can help you
Trigger Finger: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Trigger finger is a condition that affects the tendons in the fingers, causing pain, stiffness, and a locking or catching sensation when bending or straightening the finger. The condition occurs when the tendon becomes irritated and has difficulty gliding smoothly through its surrounding sheath.
Many people notice that their finger feels stiff in the morning or catches during movement. In some cases, the finger may temporarily lock in a bent position before straightening.
Physiotherapy treatment focuses on reducing tendon irritation, improving movement, and restoring normal function in the hand.
At Richmond Physiotherapist, we provide physiotherapy treatment for trigger finger in Richmond to help patients reduce pain and regain smooth finger movement.
What Causes Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger typically develops due to repetitive use of the hand and fingers.
Common causes include:
• repetitive gripping or hand use
• prolonged typing or tool use
• weight training or gripping exercises
• manual labour
• tendon irritation from overuse
• conditions such as diabetes or inflammation
Repeated stress can cause the tendon to become thickened or irritated, leading to restricted movement.
Symptoms of Trigger Finger
Symptoms of trigger finger may develop gradually and worsen over time.
Common symptoms include:
• finger stiffness, especially in the morning
• a clicking or snapping sensation when moving the finger
• finger locking in a bent position
• pain at the base of the finger or palm
• difficulty straightening the finger smoothly
• tenderness along the tendon
In more severe cases, the finger may remain locked until manually straightened.
How Physiotherapy Helps Trigger Finger
Physiotherapy treatment focuses on reducing irritation in the tendon and restoring smooth movement.
During your physiotherapy assessment at Richmond Physiotherapist, we evaluate:
• finger and hand mobility
• tendon movement
• grip patterns
• contributing wrist and forearm factors
• repetitive movement patterns
Understanding these factors helps guide treatment and recovery.
Physiotherapy Treatments for Trigger Finger
Physiotherapy treatment focuses on improving tendon capacity and reducing strain on the irritated structures.
Treatment may include several physiotherapy techniques depending on the severity of symptoms.
Common treatments include:
Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques used to improve tendon movement and reduce stiffness.
Exercise Rehabilitation
Specific exercises designed to improve tendon glide and hand function.
Dry Needling / IMS
Helps reduce muscle tension in the forearm contributing to tendon irritation.
Shockwave Therapy
May be used in persistent cases of tendon irritation.
Movement Education
Advice on modifying hand use, grip technique, and daily activities.
These treatments help restore normal movement and reduce symptoms.
During your physiotherapy assessment at Richmond Physiotherapist, we evaluate:
• elbow joint mobility
• forearm muscle strength• wrist movement mechanics
• gripping mechanics
• contributing shoulder and upper limb factors
Understanding these factors helps guide the most effective treatment plan.
When to See a Physiotherapist
You should consider physiotherapy if:
• finger stiffness persists
• locking or catching occurs during movement
• pain develops in the finger or palm
• hand function becomes limited
• symptoms interfere with work or daily tasks
Early treatment can help prevent symptoms from progressing.
If you are experiencing finger pain or locking symptoms, physiotherapy can help guide recovery and restore normal hand function.
Richmond Physiotherapist provides personalized physiotherapy treatment designed to reduce pain and improve finger mobility.
Book your physiotherapy appointment today to begin addressing your symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my finger lock or catch?
The flexor tendon swells and can’t glide smoothly through its pulley sheath. It catches, then snaps through. That’s the locking sensation. It’s usually worst in the morning and improves as the finger warms up with movement.
Can physiotherapy fix trigger finger or do I need surgery?
Mild cases often improve with splinting, activity modification, and tendon gliding exercises. If the finger is stuck and won’t straighten, or if conservative care fails after a few months, a cortisone injection or surgical release are the next steps. We always try conservative first.
Is the clicking in my finger arthritis?
Not usually. Trigger finger clicking is a tendon gliding problem, not joint degeneration. Arthritis clicking comes with joint stiffness and swelling at the joint itself. Trigger finger catching happens along the palm side where the tendon runs.
Which fingers does trigger finger affect most?
Thumb and ring finger are the most common, then middle finger. It’s often related to repetitive gripping: tools, gardening, racquet sports, or even prolonged phone holding. Diabetics get it more often and in multiple fingers.
Book an appointment
Your recovery starts with one visit.
Every session is 1-on-1, built around your body and your goals. We bill your insurance directly, so you can focus on getting better.