Fingers can lock due to a condition called trigger finger. Trigger finger happens when the tendons in your fingers or thumb, or their protective sheath, swell up or thicken. This swelling makes it difficult for your fingers to move smoothly and can even "freeze" them in a bent position.
Here's how it works:
- Tendon inflammation: When the tendon or its sheath swells, it becomes tight and restricted.
- Catching: The thickened tendon can get caught as it passes through the pulley system in the finger, causing a locking sensation.
- Snapping: When you try to straighten your finger, the tendon can suddenly pop out of the pulley, causing a snapping or popping sound.
- Locked position: If the tendon gets stuck in the pulley, your finger can remain locked in a bent position.
Common symptoms of trigger finger include:
- Pain when bending or straightening your finger
- Catching or locking of the finger in a bent position
- A snapping or popping sound when you move your finger
- Stiffness in the affected finger
- Difficulty straightening your finger
Trigger finger can affect any finger, but the ring finger and thumb are most commonly affected.
If you experience any of the symptoms of trigger finger, see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
