Physical Therapy for Trigger Finger: Exercises and Relief Techniques
Have you ever noticed a feeling of stiffness that makes it difficult for you to move your fingers? Well, that’s probably trigger finger medically known as stenosing tenosynovitis.
Although it might have a scary name, the trigger finger may be a small issue, especially considering all the non-invasive ways that you can sort out this issue like physical therapy for trigger finger.
This is a common solution, especially for people who use their fingers for tasks like typing on a keyboard or hard griping tools every day. They might experience anything from stiffness to a painful “locking” sensation, that can seriously affect their daily activities.
Thankfully, physical therapy for trigger finger is one of the best and non-invasive ways to restore normal functionality in your fingers. So, let’s learn more about what a trigger finger actually is, and some of the best exercises that can help you overcome this condition.
What Is Trigger Finger?
To put it simply, a trigger finger in most cases occurs when the tendons responsible for bending your fingers become inflamed or irritated (from prolonged and extensive finger tasks). These tendons pass through a protective sheath, and when the sheath narrows or becomes inflamed, the tendon cannot glide smoothly.
As a result, people get trigger finger, or they feel stiffness, tenderness at the base of the finger, and in some cases, a locking sensation. In some cases, people might also hear a popping sound when they are moving the affected finger.
Now trigger finger is a condition that can affect any finger, and usually the one that goes through the biggest “stress” (used the most). However, if we look at the data, we can see that the ring finger and thumb are the most common culprits. So, is this a serious issue?
Well, not really, but if it is left untreated, the condition can worsen over time leading to being permanently stuck in a bent position. Therefore, early intervention is very important.
You have to understand that trigger finger doesn’t occur randomly. It usually affects prolonged and repetitive hand movements such as typing on a computer or gripping tools constantly. On top of that, women over 40 and individuals with diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis are at higher risk.
So, in order to prevent the condition from getting worse, many people choose to go on physical therapy for trigger finger, which has proven to be quite effective.
Causes and Risk Factors of Trigger Finger
So, what actually causes trigger finger? Well, in most cases, the overuse of your fingers from repetitive everyday tasks isn’t the only thing that causes trigger finger. In fact, the causes of trigger finger often come down to overuse, but also underlying health conditions.
We are talking about repetitive motions like gripping tools, working an office job where you have to type a lot of words every day, gardening, mechanic, and other similar jobs can strain the tendons. Also, occupations like hairstyling and construction work have proven to cause trigger fingers.
But let’s explore the second cause of trigger finger - which is underlying conditions. People that suffer from diabetes and arthritis have a significantly higher risk of getting a trigger finger.
Why? Well, diabetes for example, usually leads to thickening of the tendons, while arthritis causes synthetic inflammation, making the tendons more prone to irritation.
We also have to mention that age and gender also play a very important role, and according to data we can see that women over 40 are more prone to trigger finger than men.
The causes of the trigger finger often boil down to overuse or underlying health conditions. Repetitive motions—think gripping tools or gardening—can strain the tendons.
Occupations like construction work or hairstyling are notorious for causing such strain.
Additionally, gout or other crystal-deposit diseases can inflame tendon sheaths, which increases the risk of suffering from these conditions.
So, the main cause of trigger finger is usually a combination of all of the factors we mentioned so far, which cause inflammation in the sheath leading to limited tendon movements.
The Role of Physical Therapy for Trigger Finger
Physical therapy is one of the best non-invasive ways to treat the trigger finger condition. After all, it is the first step that most people take since it is a solution that can offer symptom relief without the need for surgery.
Physical therapy for trigger finger reduces inflammation, can restore range of motion, and prevents further irritation.
So, what’s the secret? Well, therapists often employ a mix of physical therapy excercises for trigger finger, such as manual therapy or stretching techniques to ease tendon tension and instantly improve mobility.
The physical therapy treatment for trigger finger can vary. In some cases, therapists may also use modalities like ultrasound therapy just to promote blood flow and reduce swelling.
However, the most important part of the therapy involves patient education. In other words, talking to the patient about their routines and identifying and modifying their activities can ease the tendon tension over time, which is the most crucial aspect of long-term recovery and prevention.
Depending on their everyday activities, the therapists may also suggest some ergonomic adjustments such as using padded grips or wrist supports. These adjustments are designed to minimize the stress on the affected fingers.
This means that physical therapy for trigger finger is most effective if the patient also introduces some changes in their everyday life.
Therapists are also teaching patients about everyday exercises for trigger finger that they can do at home, which will prevent this condition from reappearing in the future.
Exercises for Trigger Finger Relief
Regular hand exercises are very important when it comes to addressing trigger finger symptoms. In most cases, you can do these trigger finger exercises at home.
Which are the most effective physical therapy exercises for trigger finger?
Tendon Gliding
These are some of the most effective exercises for easing tendon tension. It is quite an easy exercise that involves moving the fingers through a series of positions.
You can try it right now: move your hand into a straight hand position, then make a hook fist, followed by a full fist, and go back to the straight hand position.
Do this motion rapidly while keeping your thumb stretched outwards. This motion stretches and lubricates the tendons.
Passive Stretching
Next, we have passive stretching, which is another useful technique. How to do it?
Gently pull the affected finger back with your other hand until you feel a mild stretch. Then hold your finger in that position 10-15 times and repeat this action several times a day.
This stretching exercise increases flexibility and reduces the stiffness in the affected finger.
Isolated Movement
This is another effective exercise that can improve flexibility and reduce stiffness. To make it work, you have to place your hand flat on a table and lift each finger individually, focusing on the affected one.
This exercise isolates the tendon and encourages smoother movement.
Another similar exercise is resistance training, where you’ll need a rubber band placed around your fingers and you have to open and close your hand slowly to build strength and improve mobility.
Wrist Stretches
Lastly, we have wrist stretches, that can loosen up the entire hand. You can start by rotating your wrist in circles or performing wrist flection and extension stretches.
A good tip is to use hot compresses, especially on affected fingers just to improve flexibility and reduce discomfort.
When to See a Physical Therapist
Since we are talking about a condition that can go from bad to worse quite fast, it is really important to know when to seek professional help from a physical therapist.
Well, if you feel that stiffness in some of your fingers, you can immediately try some of the exercises we mentioned earlier at home. If home exercises don’t alleviate symptoms within a few weeks (2-4), it is a good idea to seek professional help from a physical therapist.
It is also important to notice signs of progression of the condition, which usually are:
● Persistent pain
● Finger stuck in a bent position
● Worsening stiffness despite regular exercises
In such cases, a physical therapist will evaluate your condition and create a personalized physical therapy treatment for trigger finger.
Early intervention is very important and will not only reduce pain but also minimize the risk of complications such as permanent joint deformity or in worse cases the need for surgery.
Additionally, for patients with underlying conditions like diabetes, going on physical therapy for trigger finger early will prevent additional strain and reduce inflammation.
Preventing Trigger Finger Recurrence
Preventing trigger finger involves reducing strain on the tendons and maintaining hand flexibility. If your job or hobbies require repetitive hand movements, take frequent breaks and use ergonomic tools. For example, padded grips or anti-vibration gloves can minimize pressure on the tendons.
Incorporating regular hand stretches into your routine is equally important. Tendon-gliding and wrist stretches maintain flexibility and help reduce stiffness. Warm up your hands before engaging in any repetitive tasks to improve blood flow and prevent irritation.
Managing underlying health conditions is crucial. For instance, controlling blood sugar levels if you have diabetes can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence. Similarly, addressing systemic inflammation through proper medication and diet can prevent tendon irritation.
Lastly, listen to your body. If you notice stiffness or discomfort in your fingers, don’t ignore it. Early intervention is key to preventing full-blown trigger finger.
Final Thoughts
Trigger finger may be a small issue, but it can have a huge impact on your quality of life. Fortunately, physical therapy for trigger finger provides an effective path to recovery, helping to reduce pain, restore movement, and prevent recurrence without the need for surgery.
By understanding the condition, incorporating targeted exercises, and making lifestyle changes, you can regain full hand function and get back to doing what you love. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if symptoms persist—your hands deserve the best care!
Book an appointment with us in one of Miracle Rehab Clinic locations in Michigan today.
