Does shockwave therapy have a role on trigger thumb?—a single-case design

Abstract

BackgroundThe trigger thumb is a clinically unusual and rare phenomenon. The trigger finger is most observed on the ring or middle fingers. Clinical signs include reduced tendon excursion and the formation of nodules at the base of the metacarpals. As a result, grip strength may be reduced, making gripping tasks uncomfortable. Many treatments have been proposed to treat trigger finger symptoms; however, the effectiveness of shockwave therapy is still being contested. As a result, the purpose of this trigger thumb case study is to assess the effect of shockwave therapy on grip performance.Case presentationA 53-year-old housewife reported to the outpatient department with pain at the base of her right thumb, recurring locking episodes, morning pain and stiffness, and a 10-year history of diabetes. Based on the clinical presentation and physical examination of the patient, an orthopedic sports physician diagnosed it as a trigger thumb. Analgesics were initially administered, and the patient was then referred to physiotherapy for rehabilitation. All outcomes improved substantially during the follow-up after six sessions of physical therapy, which included shockwave therapy and an exercise program.ConclusionThis study concluded that the protocol developed specifically for the treatment of the trigger thumb is efficacious. Therefore, future research with a larger number of participants is required to validate this approach.