Trigger Thumb is a condition in which the thumb becomes painful, stiff, and difficult to move due to inflammation or thickening of the tendon that controls thumb movement. As the tendon passes through a narrow sheath, it may catch or lock during bending and straightening, producing a clicking or popping sensation. In more severe cases, the thumb may become locked in a bent position and require manual assistance to straighten. Trigger thumb can develop due to repetitive gripping activities, prolonged hand use, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or may occur without a clear cause.
The condition can interfere with everyday tasks such as writing, holding objects, opening jars, or using a mobile phone. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important to prevent worsening symptoms and restore normal thumb function. Physiotherapy plays a key role in reducing pain, improving tendon mobility, restoring flexibility, and strengthening the muscles of the thumb and hand. Treatment may include activity modification, splinting, manual therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises, and tendon gliding techniques. In cases where conservative treatment is not effective, corticosteroid injections or a minor surgical release may be recommended. Following treatment, a structured rehabilitation programme helps restore full thumb movement, improve grip strength, and enable a safe return to daily activities with improved comfort and function.