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Overview
Common with diabetes.
Splints help.
When to get medical care
Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayNot usually urgent.
See a doctor soonCatching finger.
Causes
Caused by tendon swelling.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause finger catches or locks. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Trigger fingerSee a doctor if it doesn't get better
Swelling of a tendon that makes a finger catch, click, or lock when you bend it.
What you can do at home
- Rest.
- Splint.
Medicines
Injections or surgery.
At the doctor
Diagnosed by exam.
Questions you may be asked
- Symptoms
The exam
A hand exam.
Tests
- None
Prevention
Rest hands.
- Take breaks
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.