Thalassaemia is the most common haemoglobinopathy in the Chinese population. However, recurrent painful digital swelling is not a typical manifestation of this well-known hereditary condition. We describe a case of co-inheritance of beta-thalassaemia and sickle cell trait in a Chinese family and a child who suffered from sickle cell/beta-thalassaemia with recurrent dactylitis. This report highlights awareness of this rare condition in the Chinese population, since acute manifestations can be life-threatening and mimic other emergency conditions. Prompt management can prevent further complications and avoid unnecessary interventions due to delay in diagnosis. A detailed family history and examination of the patient's peripheral blood smear is crucial to reach a correct diagnosis.