Trigger Finger

Trigger Finger is an oftentimes painful condition in which your finger or thumb "locks" in a bent position. It's generally caused by swelling within a tendon sheath.
Normally, tendons in your finger glide smoothly within their protective sheaths as you move your fingers. But if a sheath becomes inflamed from injury or overuse, the tendons may "catch."
At first the affected finger may seem stiff and click when you move it. You may feel a bump and tenderness in your palm at the base of the finger.
As the problem worsens, your finger may catch at times and then suddenly pop straight--like a trigger being released. eventually, your finger may not fully straighten.
Initial treatment of a trigger finger may include rest and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen. A more effective alternative ( at any time ) is an injection of a steroid medication (Cortisone) into the tendon sheath.
In severe situations, surgery ( usually outpatient) may be required.