Trigger finger can be a frustrating and painful condition that affects daily activities like gripping, typing, and even simple tasks like holding a cup. While conventional treatments such as splinting, steroid injections, and surgery have been widely used, a newer, non-invasive option has been gaining attention: shockwave therapy. But how effective is it? Is there solid scientific evidence supporting its use for trigger finger pain? In this article, we’ll explore the latest research and insights on shockwave therapy for trigger finger and whether it’s a viable treatment option for you.

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy, or extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves to stimulate healing in musculoskeletal conditions. It has been widely used for conditions like plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, and calcific tendinitis. The therapy works by:

• Increasing blood circulation
• Reducing inflammation
• Stimulating collagen production
• Breaking down scar tissue and adhesions

For trigger finger, shockwave therapy aims to reduce tendon inflammation and improve flexibility, offering an alternative to more invasive treatments.

How Shockwave Therapy Works for Trigger Finger

Trigger finger occurs when the flexor tendons in the hand become inflamed and thickened, making it difficult for the fingers to glide smoothly. This leads to symptoms like stiffness, pain, and a snapping or locking sensation when bending or straightening the affected finger.

Shockwave therapy is believed to help by:

1. Reducing Inflammation – The acoustic waves trigger the body’s natural healing response, decreasing swelling and irritation around the tendon.
2. Enhancing Blood Flow – Improved circulation delivers oxygen and nutrients to the affected area, promoting faster healing.
3. Breaking Up Fibrotic Tissue – ESWT can help break down adhesions and scar tissue that restrict normal tendon movement.
4. Reducing Pain Sensitivity – By disrupting pain signals, shockwave therapy can provide relief even in chronic cases.

What Does the Research Say?

Several studies have explored the effectiveness of shockwave therapy for trigger finger. Let’s examine some key findings:

1. Randomized Controlled Trials for Shockwave at Trigger Finger:

• A double-blind RCT published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation evaluated the efficacy of ESWT in treating grade II trigger finger. The study included 60 patients and found that high-energy ESWT significantly improved pain and functional outcomes compared to low-energy ESWT and sham intervention, with no reported adverse effects [Chen et al, 2021].

2. Meta-Analysis on Shockwave Therapy for Shockwave at Trigger Finger:

• A meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Medicine evaluated the efficacy and safety of ESWT for upper limb tendonitis, including finger tendonitis. The analysis of 18 RCTs demonstrated that ESWT effectively relieved pain and improved function at 3- and 6-month follow-ups, particularly with radial ESWT (RESWT) [Xiong et al, 2024].

3.Systematic Reviews on Shockwave Therapy for Shockwave at Trigger Finger:

• A systematic review in Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism analyzed physical modalities for the conservative treatment of wrist and hand tenosynovitis, including trigger finger. The review concluded that ESWT was the most frequently used and effective physical therapy for functional improvement and pain control in trigger finger [Ferrara et al, 2020].
• Another systematic review in the British Medical Bulletin assessed the efficacy and safety of ESWT for orthopedic conditions. It found that ESWT is effective and safe for various musculoskeletal disorders, including trigger finger, with an optimal treatment protocol involving three sessions at 1-week intervals [Schmitz et al, 2015].[3]

What are the Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Trigger Finger?

Why should you consider shockwave therapy? Here are some key benefits:

• Non-Invasive: No needles, incisions, or recovery time required.
  
• Minimal Side Effects: Unlike steroids or surgery, ESWT has very few risks and no downtime.
  
• Long-Lasting Relief: Studies suggest that the benefits persist longer than steroid injections.
  
• Suitable for Chronic Cases: If other treatments haven’t worked, ESWT may still be effective.
  
• Quick Treatment Sessions: Each session typically lasts 10-15 minutes, making it convenient for busy schedules.

What to Expect During Treatment?

If you decide to try shockwave therapy for trigger finger, here’s what a typical treatment process looks like:

1. Assessment & Diagnosis – We will evaluate your symptoms and confirm that you’re a good candidate for ESWT.
2. Application of Shockwaves – A gel is applied to the affected area, and a handheld device delivers controlled shockwaves.
3. Gradual Improvement – Most patients need 3-5 sessions spaced about a week apart.
4. Follow-Up Care – You may be advised to do hand exercises and avoid excessive gripping during the healing process.

Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?

Shockwave therapy is generally safe, but mild side effects can include:

• Temporary redness or swelling
• Mild discomfort during treatment
• Minor bruising in some cases

These effects typically resolve within a few hours to days.

How Does Shockwave Therapy Compare to Other Treatments?

Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?

Shockwave therapy is a great option if you:

• Have mild to moderate trigger finger that hasn’t responded to home treatments
  
• Want to avoid steroid injections or surgery
  
• Prefer a non-invasive approach with long-term benefits
  
• Are dealing with chronic pain and stiffness
  

However, if your condition is severe, with a locked finger that won’t straighten, surgery may be the better option.

Should You Try Shockwave Therapy for Trigger Finger?

The evidence for shockwave therapy in treating trigger finger pain is promising, with research suggesting it can reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and offer long-lasting pain relief. If you’re looking for a non-invasive alternative to injections or surgery, ESWT might be worth considering.

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References

1. Chen YP, Lin CY, Kuo YJ, Lee OK. Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy in the Treatment of Trigger Finger: A Randomized Controlled Study. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2021 Nov;102(11):2083-2090.e1.
2. Ferrara PE, Codazza S, Cerulli S, Maccauro G, Ferriero G, Ronconi G. Physical modalities for the conservative treatment of wrist and hand's tenosynovitis: A systematic review. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2020 Dec;50(6):1280-1290.
   
3. Schmitz C, Császár NB, Milz S, Schieker M, Maffulli N, Rompe JD, Furia JP. Efficacy and safety of extracorporeal shock wave therapy for orthopedic conditions: a systematic review on studies listed in the PEDro database. Br Med Bull. 2015;116(1):115-38.
   
4. Xiong Y, Wen T, Jin S, Lin L, Shao Q, Peng Y, Zheng Q, Li W. Efficacy and safety of extracorporeal shock wave therapyfor upper limb tendonitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Front Med (Lausanne). 2024 Jul 30;11:1394268.