Occasionally, a very mild trigger finger might resolve with strict rest and avoiding the activities that caused the inflammation. However, once the finger begins actively catching or locking, it rarely resolves completely on its own. Ignoring a locked finger for months can actually lead to permanent stiffness in the joint, which is why early, conservative intervention is highly recommended.

The palm is a sensitive area, so the idea of an injection can be intimidating. At our clinic, we use ultra-fine needles to make the process as quick and comfortable as possible. You will feel a sharp pinch and some pressure for a few seconds. The results are often highly effective: a single injection can provide relief in over 50% to 70% of patients within a few days.

We generally recommend a maximum of two cortisone injections in a single finger. If the triggering returns after the first injection, a second one may be effective. However, repeated steroid injections into the same space can eventually weaken the tendon itself or thin the surrounding skin. If two injections fail to provide long-lasting relief, it is time to discuss a surgical release.

The procedure is formally called an "A1 Pulley Release." We make a very small incision (about half an inch) in the natural crease of your palm at the base of the affected finger. We then carefully locate the tight "tunnel" (the A1 pulley) that is trapping the tendon and gently cut it open. This instantly releases the pressure, allowing the swollen tendon to glide smoothly right away.

A true surgical recurrence, where the released pulley heals back together and causes the exact same finger to trigger again, is exceedingly rare. An A1 pulley release is considered a permanent fix for that specific finger. However, because the underlying cause is tendon inflammation, it is possible to develop a new trigger finger on a completely different digit in the future.