Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, can make opening and closing your hand painful and difficult. This condition arises when the tendons in your fingers become inflamed, making them catch or lock when you try to move them.
While surgery can address this condition, many people look for non-surgical options to avoid invasive procedures. But the big question is — are non-surgical treatments for trigger finger effective?
Let us explore various treatments and their effectiveness to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Trigger Finger
Trigger finger affects the tendons that control your finger movements. These tendons pass through a sheath, and when inflamed, they narrow the sheath’s space, causing pain and stiffness. This condition often affects the thumb, ring, middle, or pinky finger, and symptoms include the following:
- Pain or discomfort in the affected finger
- A popping or clicking sensation when moving the finger
- Finger stiffness, especially in the morning
- Finger locking in a bent or straight position
Benefits of Non-Surgical Treatments
Non-surgical treatments for trigger finger focus on reducing inflammation, improving mobility, and relieving pain without surgical intervention. These treatments are often preferred because:
- They avoid the risks and recovery time associated with surgery
- They offer a more cost-effective solution
- Many are minimally invasive and simple to administer
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Trigger Finger
Let us explore the most common non-surgical treatment for trigger finger and their success rates.
Rest and Activity Modification
One of the simplest ways to manage trigger finger is by resting the affected hand and avoiding activities that cause strain. This can prevent further inflammation and allow healing to begin.
Effectiveness
Mild cases of trigger finger often improve with rest and activity modification. Overuse, such as repetitive gripping or typing, may need to be avoided for several weeks.
Splinting
A splint is used to immobilize the affected finger, usually keeping it in a straight position to reduce strain on the tendon. Splints are typically worn at night to prevent unintended movements during sleep.
Effectiveness
According to studies, around 50-70% of people experience symptom improvement with splinting, especially when started early.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve) can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with trigger finger.
Effectiveness
While NSAIDs manage symptoms effectively, they do not address the underlying tendon sheath problem. They are most effective when combined with other treatments.
Corticosteroid Injections
A corticosteroid injection can reduce inflammation in the tendon sheath, improving movement and reducing pain. These injections are administered directly into the affected area by a healthcare professional.
Effectiveness
Corticosteroid injections are widely recognized as one of the most effective non-surgical treatments. It has been shown that a significant number of people experienced relief, with effects lasting months or even permanently.
Stretching and Physical Therapy
Specific stretching exercises and physical therapy sessions can improve tendon flexibility and reduce stiffness. Therapists may also teach hand-strengthening exercises to improve overall function.
Effectiveness
When done consistently, stretching and physical therapy can significantly improve mobility and reduce symptoms, especially in mild to moderate cases.
Massage Therapy
Massaging the affected area can boost blood flow and reduce tension in the tendon. Some patients find this helpful as part of a broader treatment plan.
Effectiveness
While massage therapy alone may not cure the trigger finger, it can provide temporary relief and complement more targeted treatments.
Hot and Cold Therapy
Applying heat can improve blood circulation, while cold therapy can reduce inflammation and numb pain. Alternating between both can offer dual benefits.
Effectiveness
Hot and cold therapy is a helpful complementary treatment for managing discomfort but should be used alongside more targeted approaches.
When Should You Consider Surgery
While options for the non-surgical treatment for trigger finger can be highly effective, surgery may become necessary in severe or persistent cases.
If you do not experience relief after trying non-surgical treatment for trigger finger for several months, consult a specialist to discuss surgical treatments like percutaneous release or open surgery.
Non-Surgical Treatment for Trigger Finger in Naples, FL
Managing a condition like a trigger finger on your own can be overwhelming. The good news is that you do not have to do it alone.
At the Joint Replacement Institute, we specialize in helping patients find the best treatment options suited to their orthopedic condition.
Our team of highly qualified orthopedic specialists is ready to assess your symptoms and recommend the most effective treatment plan for the trigger finger. We offer advanced diagnostic imaging, physical therapy, and non-invasive pain management options tailored to your needs.
To learn more about non-surgical treatments for trigger finger or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (239) 261-2663 or use our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/trigger-finger/symptoms-causes/syc-20365100
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/7080-trigger-finger
