Common Conditions

Trigger Finger

Trigger Finger Symptoms, Common Causes and Treatments

What is Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition that affects one or more flexor tendons of the hand and makes it difficult to bend the fingers or thumb. There are pulleys on each finger that allow finger tendons to pass through. Therefore the fingers can move freely in full range of extension and flexion. Trigger finger is thought to be the inflammation and thickening of the finger pulleys and the progressive inflammation of the tendon, and the tendon sheath may cause pain at the fingers and clicking during finger movement. The prevalence of trigger finger is around 2-3% in general population,with an even higher incidence (up to 10%) among individuals with diabetes. Repeated forceful contraction of finger flexion, for example when carrying heavy objects, prolonged writing or typing, rock climbing etc., are commonly associated with the development of trigger finger.

Common Symptoms of Trigger Finger:

Persistent soreness at the base of your thumb or another finger
A bump or lump near the palm at the base of the affected finger
Tenderness surrounding the base of the finger
A clicking or snapping sound during movement
Stiffness in the finger

Diagnosis of Trigger Finger

To diagnose trigger finger, our physiotherapist will first conduct a detailed interview and physical examination. The examination will assess the extent of restricted finger movement, as well as any signs of swelling or tenderness. If necessary, further imaging tests such as X-rays may be arranged to rule out other conditions.

Comprehensive Physiotherapy Treatment

For patients who have already developed trigger finger symptoms, our physiotherapists typically adopt the following comprehensive treatment plan:

Manual Therapy & Acupuncture: To relax the tightened forearm and hand muscle, and to mobilize the stiff finger joints.
Modalities: Certain equipment-assisted treatments like laser therapy and shockwave therapy can also be used to improve blood circulation, promote tissue healing and pain relief.
Exercise Rehabilitation: Physiotherapists will guide patients through strengthening exercises for the hand and forearm muscles, tendon gliding exercises, and even strengthening exercises for the entire upper limb kinetic chain to address the root cause in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I effectively prevent trigger finger?

Be mindful of hand usage habits and avoid prolonged repetitive finger flexion activities.
Regularly perform hand stretching exercises to maintain joint flexibility.
Use protective equipment if working in high-risk occupations.
Maintain overall good health to prevent trigger finger associated with conditions like diabetes.

Does trigger finger always require surgical treatment?

No, not all cases of trigger finger require surgical intervention. Mild to moderate cases can often be successfully managed with conservative physiotherapy treatments. However, for more severe cases, surgical treatment may be the better option.

Testimonials & Reviews

I came to them with chronic neck and knee issues, and they didn't just provide massage therapy. They took the time to thoroughly evaluate the source of my problems and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Through a combination of targeted hands-on therapy, customized strengthening exercises, and patient education, they helped me regain mobility and address the root causes of my pain. I learned the correct ways to strengthen the muscles and improve my posture to prevent future issues.
The staff is incredibly knowledgeable, taking the time to explain everything and ensure I understood how to continue my progress at home. Thanks to their expertise and dedication, I'm now pain-free and able to return to my regular activities without any limitations.

Arthur Liu

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I had never been a believer in physio therapy in the past or that my experience with multiple chain medical physiotherapy center had brought me nothing but temporary improvements. Until I had came across mobilize physiotherapy where they take the extra mile to examine your situation and tailor a physiotherapy session. The physiotherapists at Mobilize not only identifies the root cause and provide massages for pain relievers but also to provide take home exercises for improvements. I was never rush out the door for the next session and they ensure that I had receive the right treatment before the session ends.
I would highly recommend this physiotherapy center.

Edmond Chan

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As someone who regularly goes through the torment of backpain and neck pain, I was recommended by my friend to visit Mobilize Physiotherapy.
Everything - from appointment booking to the physiotherapy session itself - was very professional. Not only did Avery, my physiotherapist. give detailed explanations as he worked through my areas of pain, he taught me a few exercises that improve my core strength, which in turn could reduce my back and neck pain. Now, whenever I experience acute pain, I do these exercises and the pain eases away!
I highly recommend Mobilize Physiotherapy.

William Luk

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Excellent service. The physiotherapists are very professional, easy to communicate with and also give clear instructions on some home exercises that can help ease my pain. As a stay at home mom, I need a lot of strength on my daily routine and whenever I have any pain and problems I go to Avery for therapies and he is always helpful and caring
Highly recommended!

Samantha Lee

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I can't recommend my physio partner enough! They are always patient and provide valuable guidance to help me relieve chronic pain and improve my performance in jiu-jitsu. Their expertise has been invaluable to me. Highly recommended!

Felix Kung

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passionate, precise and comprehensive physiotherapy service, highly recommended for sudden onset or prolonged pain with unknown reason.

Sam Sam

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