Trigger Finger in a child

I noticed today that my 4 year old's thumb is in a bent position, it cannot fully straighten (she was trying to do a thumbs up). We have never noticed this before and are extremely concerned. I don't see how we never would have noticed this if she has had it for any length of time. Can this suddenly develop in a child so young? Can it resolve on its own? Everything I've read so far seems to indicate surgery, as if there are no other options with a child. Is this very serious? Thank you!

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Well, without a clinical evaluation it would be difficult to comment on the situation. This could have been present since birth or could have developed later. Causes may include issues with joint/ bone, tendon or connective tissue. It would be best to get this evaluated by a primary care pediatrician initially; where it can be decided, if an orthopedic consultation would be required. Management may be conservative or surgical depending on the cause and the severity.
Hope this helps.

Take care!