The role of physiotherapy in the treatment of chronic trigger finger—a case report

Abstract

BackgroundTrigger finger (TF) is a common condition more prevalent in women in their 5th decade of life. This causes pain and stiffness which limits daily activities. Corticosteroid injections are the first line of conservative management failing which surgery is done. Physiotherapy has shown a vital role in the treatment of trigger finger.Patient and observationWe reported a case of chronic trigger finger in a 75-year-old female with pain and stiffness. A 2 week of combined conventional and advanced physiotherapy approach was used. Pre- and post-test scores of pain and activity limitation were taken.ResultPain scores reduced from 6 to 0 measured by the Nottingham Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) scale and activity limitation measured by the patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE) scale reduced from 67.5 to 10.5%.ConclusionTwo advanced techniques A1 pulley and dry needling along with conventional physiotherapy are better than any technique alone in managing a chronic case of trigger finger.