Trigger Finger
Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition that affects the flexor tendons of the fingers. These tendons run through a series of small tunnels called tendon sheaths, which help guide smooth finger movement. When irritation or inflammation occurs in the tendon or sheath, the space within the tunnel narrows. Over time, this can lead to thickening of the tendon, the sheath, or both—making it difficult for the tendon to glide normally.
A hallmark symptom of trigger finger is a catching, locking, or snapping sensation when bending or straightening the affected finger. Patients often describe feeling a small “nodule” or bump at the base of the finger, which corresponds to the thickened portion of the tendon. In early stages, symptoms may include stiffness, tenderness in the palm, or discomfort when gripping objects. As the condition progresses, the finger may lock in a bent position and require manual assistance to extend. In more advanced cases, the finger may remain fixed in flexion, causing significant pain and functional limitation.
Trigger finger is typically a progressive condition, and without treatment, symptoms may worsen over time. Traditional approaches include rest, splinting, anti-inflammatory medications, and in severe or persistent cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery.
Shockwave therapy has emerged as a promising, non-invasive alternative for many soft-tissue conditions—including trigger finger. During treatment, your therapist applies the shockwave device to the affected tendon area in the palm, targeting inflammation, reducing tendon thickening, and promoting tissue healing. Research has shown that shockwave therapy can significantly reduce pain and improve finger mobility. In one clinical study, patients with moderate to severe trigger finger reported dramatic pain reduction—from an average of level 7 down to level 2 on a 10-point scale—after just a few sessions. Improvements in tendon smoothness and reduction of painful catching were also commonly observed.
At Granville Physio, shockwave treatment is tailored to your comfort and condition severity. Many patients notice improvements within a small number of treatments, making shockwave therapy an exciting option for restoring normal finger movement and reducing daily discomfort—without injections or surgery.
