How to Test Your Trigger Finger

Trigger finger can occur in any one of your fingers and limits the motion of your affected finger. When trying to straighten out your finger, you will notice a catching or locking of your finger. Trigger finger can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling and a lump on the palm of your hand. While trigger finger can occur at any age, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons indicates trigger finger is most common between the ages of 40 and 60. Testing for trigger finger should be completed by an orthopedic surgeon.

Instructions

• 1

  Make an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon. Ask your primary care doctor for a referral, if required by your insurance company. An orthopedic surgeon will be able to diagnose and provide treatment options for trigger finger.

• 2

  Get your affected hand and finger X-rayed. Your doctor may order an X-ray to rule out any other conditions of the finger, such as including arthritis or a bone fracture.

• 3

  Undergo a physical examination by a doctor. Your doctor will ask you to bend your affected finger and then try to straighten it out again. If your finger locks or you experience a pop while extending your finger, your doctor will diagnose you with trigger finger.