Trigger finger is a condition that causes stiffness and pain, making finger movement difficult. It often results from repetitive hand use, inflammation, or underlying health conditions. While it can be uncomfortable, physiotherapy offers an effective, non-invasive way to manage symptoms and restore normal function In this blog, we will discuss the causes of this condition, how physiotherapy can help address trigger finger symptoms, treatment options, expected recovery timelines, and ways to prevent recurrence.
What Causes Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger occurs when the tendon sheath surrounding the affected tendon becomes inflamed, restricting movement. Various factors contribute to this condition:
- Repetitive Hand Movements: Frequent gripping, typing, or tool use strains the tendons, causing microtears and inflammation.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: Diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis can lead to chronic tendon irritation and thickening.
- Previous Hand Injuries: Fractures, sprains, or carpal tunnel syndrome may alter tendon mobility and healing.
- Aging and Hormonal Changes: Natural aging and hormonal fluctuations can weaken tendons and increase stiffness.
Benefits of Physiotherapy for Trigger Finger
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in addressing trigger finger by improving function, reducing pain, and preventing complications. Here are the key benefits:
- Pain Reduction: Physiotherapy helps alleviate pain by addressing inflammation and promoting better circulation. Techniques such as manual therapy and guided exercises can ease discomfort and restore comfort in daily activities.
- Improved Mobility: Stiffness and restricted movement are common with trigger finger. Physiotherapy focuses on restoring range of motion through controlled movements and flexibility exercises to ensure smoother finger movement.
- Tendon Strengthening: Strengthening the muscles and tendons in the hand helps support proper function and reduces strain on the affected tendon. This prevents excessive stress and minimizes the risk of worsening symptoms.
- Prevention of Long-Term Stiffness: Without treatment, trigger finger can lead to persistent stiffness and even permanent immobility in severe cases. Physiotherapy helps maintain hand flexibility and function over time.
- Enhanced Coordination and Functionality: By improving finger dexterity and grip strength, physiotherapy ensures individuals can return to their normal routines, whether that involves work, hobbies, or everyday tasks.
Can Physiotherapy Help Prevent Trigger Finger from Recurring?
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in preventing recurrence by strengthening the hand’s muscles and tendons. Regular hand exercises, proper ergonomics while typing or gripping objects, and daily stretching help maintain flexibility and reduce strain. Taking breaks from repetitive hand movements and using proper hand positioning can also help prevent excessive tendon irritation over time.
Physiotherapy Treatments for Trigger Finger
Several physiotherapy treatments effectively address trigger finger by reducing symptoms and restoring function:
- Manual Therapy: Soft tissue massage and joint mobilization release tension in the tendons, improving movement.
- Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises restore flexibility and strengthen supporting muscles.
- Splinting: A splint keeps the affected finger stable, preventing excessive movement and reducing pain.
- Heat and Cold Therapy: Heat relaxes tight muscles, while cold reduces swelling and numbs discomfort.
Is Physiotherapy for Trigger Finger Painful?
Physiotherapy for trigger finger is generally not painful, though mild discomfort may occur, especially during stretching and manual therapy. Treatments are designed to be gradual, ensuring exercises remain within a comfortable range. Heat therapy and gentle massage help minimize discomfort and promote healing. If pain persists, adjustments can be made to better suit individual tolerance levels.
How Long Does It Take to See Results from Physiotherapy for Trigger Finger?
The recovery timeline varies based on symptom severity and adherence to treatment. Many individuals notice relief within a few weeks of starting physiotherapy. Mild cases may improve in 2–4 weeks, while moderate cases could take 4–6 weeks. Severe cases, especially those with persistent locking, may require 8 weeks or more for substantial progress. Regular physiotherapy sessions and consistent home exercises can speed up recovery.
Managing Trigger Finger Symptoms: Recommended Workplace Adjustments
Workplace modifications can reduce strain on the fingers and support recovery. Small ergonomic changes can make a big difference in managing symptoms and preventing trigger finger from worsening.
- Ergonomic Keyboard and Mouse: A vertical mouse and ergonomic keyboard promote a natural hand position, reducing strain.
- Adaptive Grips and Tools: Using tools with padded or wider grips helps minimize pressure on the tendons.
- Frequent Stretching Breaks: Taking short breaks to stretch the fingers and hands prevents stiffness and inflammation.
- Voice-to-Text Software: Reducing typing strain by using speech-to-text software can alleviate finger fatigue.
- Proper Desk Height and Arm Support: Ensuring the workstation is set at an appropriate height and using wrist supports can reduce unnecessary hand strain.
By implementing these workplace adjustments alongside physiotherapy, individuals can better manage symptoms and reduce the risk of worsening trigger finger.
Can Physiotherapy Prevent the Need for Surgery?
Early physiotherapy intervention can prevent trigger finger from worsening and reduce the likelihood of surgery. Regular treatment helps restore function and prevent complications such as severe locking or chronic stiffness.
If left untreated, trigger finger may worsen, leading to permanent stiffness and difficulty performing daily tasks. Surgery, such as a trigger finger release procedure, is usually considered when conservative treatments fail. However, consistent physiotherapy can significantly reduce pain and improve finger mobility, often eliminating the need for surgical intervention.
Find the Relief You’ve Been Looking For
Physiotherapy is an effective, non-invasive way to relieve pain, restore movement, and prevent trigger finger from worsening. Early treatment can improve recovery outcomes and help you regain full hand function.At Full Function Rehab & Wellness in Woodbridge, our experienced physiotherapists provide personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs. Contact us today to book an appointment and start your recovery journey!
