What are the indications for corticosteroid injections in the management of trigger finger?

Indications for corticosteroid injections in the management of trigger finger are not explicitly detailed in the provided UK guideline excerpts. However, based on general principles for corticosteroid injections in hand conditions, corticosteroid injections may be considered when conservative measures have failed to relieve symptoms, and the diagnosis is clear. Referral to secondary care is advised if symptoms persist despite conservative treatment or if there is diagnostic uncertainty.

Specifically, the provided context does not include direct recommendations for corticosteroid injections in trigger finger but notes that for other hand conditions such as Dupuytren's disease, corticosteroid injections are not routinely recommended in primary care and should be considered after specialist evaluation ².

Therefore, in the management of trigger finger, corticosteroid injections are typically indicated when there is persistent triggering causing pain or functional impairment, and conservative treatments (such as splinting or activity modification) have not been effective, with consideration for specialist referral if needed.