Total Spine and Orthopedics logo
Free MRI Review
Schedule a Consultation

Trigger Finger Release

Trigger finger release opens the tight pulley at the base of a finger or thumb so the tendon can glide freely again. It is considered when catching or locking continues despite rest, splinting, and injections, and it is a short outpatient procedure through a small incision.

What Is Trigger Finger Release?

The tendons that bend the fingers glide through tunnels called pulleys. In trigger finger, the tendon or its sheath becomes inflamed and thickened, and catches on the first pulley at the base of the finger.
 
Trigger finger release divides that tight pulley, giving the tendon room to glide so the finger bends and straightens smoothly. Learn more about trigger finger.

Conditions Trigger Finger Release Treats

This procedure is used for the following conditions. Each links to its own page with symptoms and other treatment options.

Trigger fingerA finger that catches, clicks, or locks. Trigger thumbThe same condition affecting the thumb.
Schedule A Consultation

When Is A Release Recommended?

Most trigger fingers improve with rest, splinting, and steroid injections. A release is considered when symptoms persist or return after these treatments, or when the finger locks in a bent position.
 
Prompt treatment can prevent the condition from becoming more severe and causing long-term stiffness.
Schedule A Consultation
Diagram of trigger finger showing the flexor tendon catching in a narrowed tendon sheath

How The Procedure Works

Trigger finger release is a short outpatient procedure:

  1. 1

    Local anesthesia

    The palm and finger are numbed.

  2. 2

    A small incision

    A small incision is made in the palm at the base of the finger.

  3. 3

    Releasing the pulley

    The tight pulley is divided so the tendon can glide.

  4. 4

    Checking motion

    The finger is moved to confirm it no longer catches.

  5. 5

    Closing

    The incision is closed with a small dressing.

Recovery After Trigger Finger Release

Recovery after trigger finger release is usually quick.

Same day

Move the finger

Gentle bending and straightening is encouraged right away.

First weeks

Light use

Light activities resume; palm soreness gradually settles.

Following weeks

Full use

Most patients return to full hand use; therapy helps if stiffness remains.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is trigger finger release?

Trigger finger release is a procedure that opens the tight pulley at the base of the finger or thumb so the flexor tendon can glide freely, stopping the catching and locking.

When is trigger finger release recommended?

It is considered when trigger finger persists despite rest, splinting, and steroid injections, or when the finger locks in a bent position.

Is the procedure done in the office or the operating room?

It is a short outpatient procedure performed with local anesthesia. Your surgeon will explain the setting and technique for your case.

How big is the incision?

The release is performed through a small incision in the palm at the base of the affected finger or thumb.

How soon can I use my hand?

Most patients are encouraged to move the finger right away and resume light use within days. Soreness in the palm can last a few weeks.

Will the trigger finger come back?

Recurrence in the same finger after a complete release is uncommon, although trigger finger can develop in other fingers.

Will I need therapy?

Most patients do not, but hand therapy may help if the finger is stiff after surgery, especially after long-standing locking.

How do I find out if I need a release?

An examination of the finger usually makes the diagnosis. Call (321) 499-4646 to schedule.

Symptoms Trigger Finger Release Can Relieve

Releasing the pulley can relieve:

  • Catching or clicking when the finger moves.
  • Locking of the finger in a bent position.
  • Pain in the palm at the base of the finger.
  • Stiffness, especially in the morning.
  • A tender bump in the palm.
Schedule A Consultation

Related Treatments

Carpal Tunnel Release

Carpal tunnel release relieves pressure on the median nerve at the wrist to ease numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand.

Cubital Tunnel Release

Cubital tunnel release relieves pressure on the ulnar nerve at the elbow to ease numbness in the ring and little fingers.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is an advanced form of extended care that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of musculoskeletal conditions to help relieve chronic pain and other symptoms.

Pain Management Injections

Several types of injections can be used to diagnose and treat back pain. In many cases, injections are used for both purposes at the same time.

Bracing

Neck and back braces can be used for a number of purposes. For example, patients who have undergone a spinal fusion or other type of spine surgery may be required to wear a neck or back brace during the postoperative recovery process to help with recovery. There are several types of braces for the neck or back and your surgeon will determine the types of brace required based on the type and location of surgery and your projected recovery time.

Conservative Care Or Surgery?

Conservative Care Or Surgery?

How non-surgical care compares with trigger finger release.

Non-surgical careSurgical releaseWhen conservative care is not enough
GoalReduce inflammation and pressure to ease symptoms.Permanently create more room for the nerve or tendon.
Best forMild or early symptoms.Persistent, severe, or progressing symptoms.
Typical optionsSplinting, activity changes, therapy, medication, and injections.An outpatient procedure through a small incision.
RecoveryNo downtime, but symptoms may return.A short recovery with protected use of the hand, then therapy if needed.

Most patients improve with conservative treatment, and a release is considered when it does not work.

Our Patients Stories

Hear our patients share their experience with us, All in their own words.

Why Choose Total Spine and Orthopedics

Expert, ultra-minimally invasive spine and orthopedic care, close to home.

  • Ultra-minimally invasive and endoscopic techniques

    We specialize in procedures performed through incisions smaller than a dime, sparing muscle and supporting a faster recovery.

  • Same-day, outpatient procedures

    Most patients walk in and return home within hours, rather than facing an overnight hospital stay.

  • Board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons

    Our team includes early leaders in endoscopic spine surgery.

  • A complimentary MRI review

    Understand your diagnosis and options from a board-certified specialist before committing to any treatment.

  • Trusted by our community

    More than 1,100 patient reviews at a 4.6-star average, and over 50,000 patients treated.

  • Orthopedic hand care close to home

    Our orthopedic surgeons and physicians treat hand conditions in Melbourne, Orlando, and Titusville.

  • Comprehensive spine and orthopedic care

    From injections to advanced procedures, your full continuum of care is handled in one place.

  • Convenient locations across the Space Coast and Orlando

    Care close to home in Melbourne, Orlando (Lake Nona), and Titusville.

Schedule your visit online

Take the next step and schedule an appointment today

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Name(Required)
Do you want to be contacted via text message?