Treloar Physiotherapy Clinic in Vancouver specializes in providing advanced trigger finger treatment, focusing on pain relief, finger mobility improvement, and recurrence prevention with personalized care.

Understanding Trigger Finger

Trigger finger , or ‘stenosing tenosynovitis’, is a condition characterized by the inflammation of the flexor tendons of the finger or thumb, which are crucial for bending movements. This inflammation leads to the narrowing of the tendon sheath, creating resistance and pain when the tendon attempts to glide through it during finger movements.

The condition derives its name from the characteristic “triggering” or “locking” experienced by those affected when bending or straightening the finger, sometimes requiring forceful effort to “unlock” the finger, which may snap back into place. This can result in significant discomfort, pain, and functional impairment in severe cases.

In-Depth Causes and Contributing Factors

The development of trigger finger is often associated with repetitive strain or overuse of the fingers and thumb, particularly in activities requiring prolonged gripping or flexing. However, it can also occur without a clear cause. Several factors contribute to the risk of developing trigger finger, including:

  • Occupational and Recreational Activities: Jobs or hobbies that involve repetitive hand use and prolonged gripping can increase the risk.
  • Medical Conditions: Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory conditions are known to be significant risk factors due to their association with systemic inflammation and altered tissue repair.
  • Anatomical Variations: Individual differences in the anatomy of the hand may predispose some people to develop trigger finger.
  • Age and Sex: The condition is more common in adults between 40 and 60 years old and tends to occur more frequently in women.

Detailed Symptoms and Assessment Process

Symptoms of trigger finger progressively worsen over time and may include:

  • Morning Stiffness: The finger may feel particularly stiff and difficult to move upon waking.
  • Popping or Clicking Sensation: A noticeable snap or click when the finger is bent or straightened.
  • Tenderness and Pain: A tender lump may form at the base of the affected finger on the palm side, with pain extending along the finger during movement.
  • Locking: The finger may lock in a bent position and suddenly pop straight, or become unable to straighten without assistance.

Assessment typically involves an examination, with healthcare providers identifying symptoms, testing hand functionality, and looking for the presence of locking or popping during finger movement. 

Our Approach to Physiotherapy for Trigger Finger Treatment

At Treloar Physiotherapy Clinic, we specialize in a comprehensive physiotherapy approach to trigger finger treatment in Vancouver, focusing on strategies to alleviate symptoms and restore function.

  • Initial Comprehensive Assessment: A detailed evaluation is conducted to understand the extent of your condition, including the specific fingers affected, the severity of symptoms, and how they impact your daily activities. This assessment forms the foundation of your personalized treatment plan.
  • Customized Exercise Programs: We create tailored exercise programs designed to gently stretch and strengthen the finger tendons and muscles, improving their glide through the tendon sheath and reducing symptoms of locking and stiffness.
  • Manual Therapy Techniques: Our experienced physiotherapists employ manual therapy techniques, including soft tissue massage and mobilization, to decrease inflammation, increase tendon mobility, and alleviate pain.
  • Ergonomic and Activity Modification Advice: Practical advice on modifying daily activities and ergonomic strategies is provided to minimize strain on the affected finger, helping you to manage your condition effectively and prevent aggravation of symptoms.

Why Choose Treloar Physiotherapy Clinic for Trigger Finger Treatment

Choosing Treloar Physiotherapy Clinic for your trigger finger treatment in Vancouver offers you access to:

  • Experienced Physiotherapy Care: Our team has extensive experience in hand therapy, employing the latest evidence-based practices to ensure optimal outcomes.
  • Personalized Treatment Plans: We recognize the unique nature of each case of trigger finger, providing tailored treatment plans to meet individual needs and recovery goals.
  • Comprehensive Support: Beyond physiotherapy, we offer a holistic approach to care, including lifestyle and ergonomic adjustments to improve overall hand health and prevent future issues.

Comprehensive Treatment Services1

Treloar Physiotherapy Clinic is committed to delivering a wide range of services, addressing various musculoskeletal conditions and ensuring a holistic approach to your health and well-being.

Let Us Help You End the Pain

If trigger finger is impacting your life, Treloar Physiotherapy Clinic in Vancouver is here to help you regain mobility, comfort, and function in your hand. We strive to offer effective, compassionate care that provides quick and lasting recovery.

Wrist and Hand Conditions We Treat

  • Skier’s Thumb Treatment (Gamekeeper’s Thumb)
  • Mallet Finger Treatment
  • Scaphoid Wrist Fractures Treatment
  • Wrist Osteoarthritis Treatment
  • Dupuytren’s Contracture Treatment
  • Wrist Tendinitis Treatment
  • Trigger Finger Treatment (Stenosing Tenosynovitis)
  • Ganglion Cysts Treatment
  • De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Treatment
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment

Trigger Finger Treatment Vancouver FAQs

How Long Does It Take to Recover From Trigger Finger Treatment?

The recovery time from trigger finger treatment varies depending on the method used. Physiotherapy may offer immediate relief, but it can take weeks to fully regain mobility and reduce symptoms. The recovery time can range from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the extent of the injury and the individual’s recovery process. Following post-treatment care instructions, including hand therapy exercises, is crucial for a successful recovery.

Can Trigger Finger Heal on Its Own?

In some mild cases, trigger finger may improve without intensive treatment. Resting the affected finger, avoiding repetitive gripping, and using over-the-counter pain relief can alleviate symptoms for some individuals. However, without addressing the underlying inflammation and tendon friction, the condition may persist or worsen. Seeking professional advice for proper assessment and treatment is recommended to prevent long-term stiffness or loss of motion in the affected finger.

Are There Any Exercises That Can Help With Trigger Finger?

Yes, there are specific exercises designed to reduce stiffness and improve flexibility in the affected finger. Gentle stretching exercises that extend and flex the finger can help maintain range of motion and reduce the likelihood of the finger getting stuck. Finger tendon glide exercises, where the finger is moved through a series of positions from fully bent to fully straight, can also be beneficial. It’s important to perform these exercises gently and avoid forceful stretching, which could worsen the symptoms. Additionally, it is always recommended that you perform any exercises under the guidance of a healthcare professional to avoid complications.

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Untreated Trigger Finger?

Leaving trigger finger untreated can lead to several long-term effects, including persistent pain, increased stiffness, and decreased mobility of the affected finger. Over time, the finger may become locked in a bent position, making it difficult or impossible to straighten. This can severely impact the hand’s functionality and the individual’s ability to perform everyday tasks. Early treatment is recommended to avoid these complications and preserve hand function.

Our Clinic Locations:

Location 1:
Treloar Physiotherapy Clinic
595 West 8th Ave
Vancouver, BC V5Z 0C4
604-875-6207

Location 2:
Treloar Physiotherapy Clinic
203 – 5511 West Boulevard
Vancouver, BC V6M 3W6
604-266-8383