Effective Methods for Diagnosing and Treating Trigger Finger

6. The "Morning Lock-Up" Phenomenon: A Telltale Awakening

Does your day begin with a stubborn finger that seems to have seized up overnight, refusing to cooperate? One of the most distinctive red flags for trigger finger is this pronounced worsening of symptoms, especially stiffness and locking, upon first waking. During periods of inactivity like sleep, inflammation can settle in the constricted tendon sheath. When you then try to move your fingers, the thickened part of the tendon struggles to glide, often leading to that frustrating 'lock-up' or requiring a painful, forceful pop to get it going. This specific morning struggle is a significant clue.