Trigger thumb (also referred to as stenosing flexor tenosynovitis) is a condition where your thumb becomes stuck in an indented state and can suddenly straighten with an audible “pop,” similar to pulling and releasing a trigger. This condition can interfere with daily activities and be very painful. Here is an in-depth guide on how to use Arthroeze Splints and home remedies to treat trigger thumb.
Understanding Trigger Thumb
Trigger thumb is caused when an inflamed tendon in your thumb becomes inflexible and can’t glide smoothly through the sheath (its protective covering). As a result, your thumb catches, locking into a bent position, leading to painful side-effects that could need medical attention to correct.
Symptoms of Trigger Thumb
Symptoms can include:
- Thumb catching or locking in a bent position
- Pain at the base of the thumb
- Stiffness (particularly in the morning)
- A popping or clicking sensation when moving the thumb
Treating Trigger Thumb
Listed in the following sections are some of the methods for treating trigger thumb. We recommend that you try them in order to improve your chances of getting better.
Rest and Avoid Strenuous Activity
To effectively treat trigger thumb, the first step should be taking some proper rest. Avoid activities which require you to repeatedly move your thumb or grip things with it.
Tips
Avoid any tools or jobs involving forceful gripping. Also try to limit your texting and avoid playing video games that involve using your thumb extensively.
Splinting
Wearing a splint keeps the joint straighter so the tendon has time to rest and heal without being bent back in.
How to Wear a Splint
Place the splint over your thumb before bedtime to stop it from curling while sleeping and consider wearing it during the day if you can’t avoid doing tasks using your thumb.
Stretching Exercises
Stretching is an effective way to increase your thumb flexibility and decrease stiffness. Here are a few exercises you should try:
Thumb Flexion
- Start with your hand open and fingers straight.
- Slowly bend your thumb across your palm toward the base of your little finger.
- Hold for a few seconds, then return to the starting position.
- Repeat 5-10 times.
Thumb Extension
- Place your hand flat on a table, palm down.
- Gently lift your thumb off the table as far as is comfortable.
- Hold for a few seconds, then lower your thumb.
- Repeat 5-10 times.
Massage and Ice Therapy
Gently massaging the base of your thumb and applying ice can help relieve pain and inflammation in the joint.
Tips:
Massage the area using circular motions for several minutes before placing an ice pack wrapped in cloth on your thumb for around 10-15 minutes several times a day.
Over-the-Counter Medication
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen or naproxen, can help relieve discomfort and inflammation in your thumb.
Consult Your Doctor
Always follow the dosage instructions on the packaging. To avoid any health issues or issues with other medications that you might be taking, seek medical advice before you take them.
Steroid Injections
If home treatments don’t seem to help, your doctor might suggest injecting steroids directly into the tendon to reduce the inflammation and increase its mobility again. This procedure will allow it to more effectively heal over time.
What to Expect
An injection will usually be given at the base of your thumb. Pain relief can come quickly or could take several days before you start feeling its full impact.
Surgery
In extreme cases, or when other therapies have failed, you might need surgery to treat trigger thumb. A procedure known as trigger thumb release involves creating a small incision to widen the tendon sheath, freeing up the movement of the tendon itself.
Surgical Procedure:
- Typically performed under local anaesthesia.
- It’s a quick procedure, often done on an outpatient basis.
- Recovery is generally rapid with minimal downtime afterwards and you can often use your hand later the same day.
Preventing Trigger Thumb
Although trigger thumb is sometimes unavoidable due to repetitive activities or an underlying condition, here are a few strategies to help avoid trigger thumb:
- Take frequent breaks when doing activities that require repetitive thumb movements.
- Use ergonomic tools to alleviate strain on your thumb.
- Regularly perform hand and thumb stretches to maintain flexibility.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you are experiencing persistent discomfort, swelling, or your thumb keeps locking up, it is wise to consult your GP. Early intervention could prevent symptoms from worsening and avoid the need for more invasive treatment in the future.
Conclusion
Trigger thumb can be an inconvenient condition to live with, but with proper care and treatment it can be managed effectively. Start with simple home remedies such as good rest, splinting and exercises before seeking further treatment. By taking proactive steps you can decrease the pain while improving your thumb mobility, allowing you to return to daily activities as soon as possible.
