Trigger Finger (Finger Locking or Stiffness)
What causes it:
Trigger finger is when a finger or thumb becomes stuck or locks in a bent position, sometimes clicking or snapping painfully when straightened. Although trigger finger is not commonly listed as a prostate cancer treatment side effect, men undergoing hormone therapy (ADT) frequently mention this problem. Hormone therapy reduces testosterone, which affects connective tissues, tendons, and joints. Low testosterone levels can cause changes in tendon sheaths—thin protective coverings around finger tendons—leading them to swell and become irritated. This swelling makes it difficult for the tendon (which moves your finger) to glide smoothly through the sheath, causing the tendon to catch or get stuck. Trigger finger may also result from hormonal changes causing inflammation or fluid retention during hormone therapy. It can occur suddenly or gradually worsen over weeks to months.
How it affects daily life:
Trigger finger affects your ability to grip or grasp objects. It can become challenging to perform simple daily tasks, like buttoning a shirt, writing, typing, or gripping objects firmly. You might notice stiffness, especially when waking up. Often, you need to physically straighten your finger with the other hand, causing pain and discomfort. Some men experience soreness or swelling at the base of the finger or palm, making routine tasks uncomfortable. Activities requiring repetitive finger movements, like typing, using tools, or cooking, might become difficult or painful. The inconvenience can impact your ability to manage self-care tasks, hobbies, or work comfortably.
Ways to manage or reduce it:
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Rest and modification of activities:
Try reducing repetitive finger movements or gripping tasks that aggravate the finger locking. Short breaks during tasks can help reduce inflammation and irritation of the tendon. -
Gentle finger stretches and exercises:
Regularly stretching and gently moving the affected finger can ease stiffness. Soaking your hand in warm water can relax the muscles and tendons, making finger exercises easier and less painful. -
Splinting:
Using a splint to keep the affected finger straight, especially at night, helps prevent it from locking in a bent position. Splinting for a few weeks may reduce inflammation and allow the tendon to move more smoothly. -
Anti-inflammatory medications:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (like ibuprofen) can reduce swelling and discomfort. Consult your doctor before using these medications long-term. -
Steroid injections:
A corticosteroid injection into the tendon sheath can significantly reduce inflammation and provide relief. This procedure is simple, quick, and often effective, providing relief for several months or longer. -
Physical or occupational therapy:
A therapist can teach exercises or stretches specifically designed to improve finger movement and reduce pain. This approach is beneficial if stiffness or locking severely impacts your daily activities. -
Surgery (last resort):
In persistent or severe cases, a minor surgical procedure can be done. It involves a small incision in the palm to release the tendon sheath, allowing the tendon to glide freely again. Recovery is usually quick, and relief is often immediate.
If you notice trigger finger symptoms, discuss it with your healthcare team or ask for a referral to a hand specialist. Early management usually prevents the issue from worsening and can restore finger function effectively.
References:
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Koh, S., Nakamura, S., Hattori, T., & Hirata, H. (2010). Trigger digits in diabetes: their incidence and characteristics. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume), 35(4), 302–305.
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Makkouk, A. H., Oetgen, M. E., Swigart, C. R., & Dodds, S. D. (2008). Trigger finger: etiology, evaluation, and treatment. Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine, 1(2), 92–96.