As hand therapists, we understand that trigger finger is a common issue characterized by finger locking, pain in the middle joint, and tenderness at the base of the finger. It commonly affects individuals between the ages of 55 and 60, with a higher frequency in women. While surgery and injection are well-known for managing trigger finger symptoms, what about the use of splinting as an effective treatment option?
While most are familiar with the management of the symptoms of trigger finger employing or using surgery and injection, what about the use of a splint for treatment? Is there evidence to suggest this may be an effective intervention for trigger finger for our patients?
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Treating Trigger Finger
In recent years, several studies have explored the effectiveness of splinting in treating trigger finger. All of these studies have found a reduction in pain and triggering when a splint is used. Remarkably, one study showed that 87% of participants no longer required surgery or steroid injections one year after completing a splinting regimen. Furthermore, a literature review indicated that combining splinting with a steroid injection yielded more successful symptom resolutions compared to using splinting or injection alone.
Non-surgical treatment, including splinting, is generally recommended for milder cases of trigger finger where the locking can be corrected without assistance from the non-involved hand. Typically, a splint should be worn for 6 weeks and potentially extended to 10 weeks if symptoms persist. The splint can be removed for tendon gliding exercises multiple times a day.
Recent research has shown symptom improvement when using a splint at the metacarpal phalangeal (MCP), proximal interphalangeal (PIP), and distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints of the digits, as well as at the interphalangeal (IP) joint of the thumb. When it comes to splinting, the joint that allows for smooth tendon glide and provides the least restriction should be prioritized.
Oval-8 Finger Splint for Trigger Finger
The Oval-8 Finger Splint, is an excellent option for treating trigger finger. It is available in CLASSIC Beige and NEW Oval-8 CLEAR, offering a convenient, low-profile, and comfortable solution for splinting the PIP or DIP joints of the digits and the IP joint of the thumb. With various sizes available, the Oval-8 ensures an appropriate fit, allowing minimum interference with hand usage.
Oval-8 Finger Splint for Trigger Finger in Classic Beige |
Oval-8 CLEAR Finger Splint for Trigger Finger |
Patients and Consumers
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