Trigger finger is a condition that affects one or more tendons of the hand which makes it difficult to bend the affected finger or thumb. Trigger finger is also known as stenosing tenosynovitis. It usually affects the thumb, ring finger or little finger. This condition causes painful catching or popping of the affected finger in early stage. Later, the finger will lock in either flexion or extension. In most cases, trigger finger is a nuisance rather than a serious condition. However, if it remains untreated, the affected finger or thumb may become permanently stuck in a bent position, your doctor may recommend surgery to correct the affected tendon to release the trigger finger.