Trigger finger, medically known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and a locking or catching sensation when bending and straightening one or more fingers. This common hand condition can interfere with daily activities, making simple tasks like gripping, writing, or using a phone painful and difficult. Fortunately, physical therapy offers non-invasive treatments that can significantly alleviate the symptoms of trigger finger and help restore normal function.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what trigger finger is, its causes and symptoms, and how physical therapy can be an effective part of the treatment and recovery process.
What Is Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger occurs when the tendons in the fingers or thumb become inflamed or irritated, causing them to catch or lock during movement. Tendons are surrounded by a protective sheath that allows them to glide smoothly as you move your fingers. In trigger finger, the sheath narrows due to inflammation, making it harder for the tendon to move freely. As a result, the finger may get stuck in a bent position and then suddenly release, resembling the trigger of a gun being pulled and released.
The condition can affect any finger, including the thumb (where it is referred to as trigger thumb), and may involve one or multiple digits.
What Causes Trigger Finger?
Several factors can contribute to the development of trigger finger, including:
Repetitive hand movements: Jobs or hobbies that require frequent gripping, pinching, or repetitive finger motions, such as using hand tools or playing musical instruments, can increase the risk.
Inflammatory conditions: Individuals with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or gout are more likely to develop trigger finger due to inflammation of the tendons.
Age and gender: Trigger finger is more common in women and typically occurs between the ages of 40 and 60, although it can affect individuals of any age.
Previous injury: Trauma or injury to the hand or fingers can lead to inflammation, making it more difficult for the tendons to glide smoothly.
Symptoms of Trigger Finger
The primary symptom of trigger finger is a locking or catching sensation when trying to bend or straighten the affected finger. Other common symptoms include:
Pain: Pain at the base of the affected finger, especially when gripping or holding objects.
Stiffness: Stiffness in the finger, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
Tenderness: Tenderness or soreness in the palm, particularly over the inflamed tendon.
Clicking or popping: A clicking or popping sound or sensation when moving the finger.
Inability to straighten the finger: In severe cases, the finger may remain stuck in a bent position and require manual assistance to straighten.
How Physical Therapy Can Help Treat Trigger Finger
For many people, physical therapy is an effective way to treat trigger finger without surgery. A physical therapist will develop a personalized treatment plan to reduce pain, restore normal tendon function, and improve hand strength and flexibility. Here are some key components of physical therapy for trigger finger:
1. Splinting
One of the most common non-invasive treatments for trigger finger is splinting. A splint is used to keep the affected finger in a straight position, allowing the tendon to rest and reducing inflammation. A physical therapist may recommend wearing a splint at night to prevent the finger from locking while you sleep, or during the day to limit movement while the tendon heals.
2. Stretching Exercises
Gentle stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness in the affected finger. Physical therapists teach patients specific stretches to help lengthen the tendon and restore smooth movement. Some examples of common stretches include:
Finger extensions: Gently straightening the affected finger and holding it in that position to stretch the tendon.
Passive finger stretches: Using your other hand to help extend and stretch the affected finger.
Tendon gliding exercises: These exercises involve moving the fingers in a specific sequence to help reduce adhesions around the tendon and improve mobility.
3. Strengthening Exercises
Strengthening the muscles around the hand and fingers can help improve overall hand function and reduce the likelihood of future problems. A physical therapist may introduce grip-strengthening exercises, such as squeezing a stress ball or using resistance bands, to help build strength in the fingers, hand, and forearm muscles.
4. Massage Therapy
Soft tissue massage around the affected tendon and palm can help reduce tension, increase blood flow, and promote healing. By applying gentle pressure to the area around the inflamed tendon, a physical therapist can help break up adhesions and improve the movement of the tendon within its sheath.
5. Modalities for Pain Relief
Physical therapists often use various modalities to manage pain and inflammation associated with trigger finger, such as:
Ultrasound therapy: High-frequency sound waves are used to increase circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in the tendon.
Ice therapy: Applying ice to the affected area helps reduce swelling and pain.
Heat therapy: Heat can increase blood flow to the area, helping to relax muscles and improve flexibility before stretching exercises.
6. Ergonomic Adjustments
In cases where trigger finger is caused by repetitive motions or prolonged gripping, physical therapists can provide guidance on ergonomic adjustments to reduce strain on the fingers and hands. This may include modifications to hand tools, changes in posture, or adjusting the way you perform certain tasks to minimize stress on the tendons.
7. Activity Modification
A critical part of physical therapy for trigger finger is learning to modify or avoid activities that aggravate the condition. Your therapist will help identify any tasks or movements that may be contributing to the problem and provide strategies for minimizing their impact. This might include taking more frequent breaks, adjusting your grip, or using assistive devices.
Preventing Trigger Finger
In addition to treating the symptoms of trigger finger, physical therapy can help prevent the condition from recurring. Some prevention strategies include:
Proper hand posture: Avoiding prolonged gripping or pinching and using proper hand positions during tasks can reduce strain on the tendons.
Regular stretching: Incorporating hand and finger stretches into your daily routine can keep the tendons flexible and prevent stiffness.
Strengthening exercises: Strengthening the muscles in your hand and forearm can provide better support for the tendons, reducing the risk of injury.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you notice any of the signs of trigger finger, especially if your finger becomes stuck in a bent position or you experience significant pain, it’s essential to seek professional help. Early intervention through physical therapy can prevent the condition from worsening and reduce the likelihood of needing more invasive treatments, such as corticosteroid injections or surgery.
Conclusion
Trigger finger can be a painful and frustrating condition, but physical therapy offers effective, non-surgical treatment options that can alleviate symptoms and restore hand function. Through a combination of splinting, stretching, strengthening exercises, and other therapeutic techniques, physical therapists can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent future issues. If you’re experiencing symptoms of trigger finger, consult with a physical therapist to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and helps you regain pain-free movement.
By taking a proactive approach to treatment and following through with exercises and activity modifications, you can manage trigger finger and maintain a healthy, functional hand for years to come.
Dr. Lilly Koh PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS
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