College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

Which fingers are most commonly affected by Trigger Finger?

1. 1st and 2nd

2. 2nd and 3rd

3. 3rd and 4th

4. 4th and 5th

The correct answer is: 3rd and 4th

Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition that results in the catching or locking of one or more fingers. The most commonly affected fingers are typically the third (middle) and fourth (ring) fingers. This tendency is related to the anatomical layout of the tendons and the pulleys in the finger as they allow for flexion and extension. The condition arises due to inflammation or thickening of the tendon sheath, particularly affecting those digits responsible for gripping motions. The third and fourth fingers are frequently employed during grasping, making them more susceptible to repetitive stress and subsequent swelling. Although other fingers can be affected, the middle and ring fingers have higher rates of incidence in the population, particularly in individuals with certain risk factors such as diabetes or repetitive use injuries. Understanding this anatomical and functional context clarifies why the third and fourth fingers are cited as the most commonly affected by trigger finger.