Trigger Finger Exercises at Home
The tendon responsible for finger movement becomes limited when the sheath around the tendon narrows, resulting in trigger finger or stenosing tenosynovitis. It becomes painful when the motion reduces to the point of a finger catching or locking when moving. Finger exercises, with a doctor's approval, may either prevent surgery or aid in rehabilitation after surgery. At the first sign of trigger finger, a doctor will usually recommend that you rest your hand for some time, so a doctor's approval is recommended before trying any exercise.
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Beginning Exercises
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Stretching out the tendon and breaking up any adhesions will help prevent future occurrences of trigger finger. Start slowly when beginning exercises to give your body the chance to adapt.
With your arm bent at a 90-degree angle, stretch fingers wide and bring your hand up as if doing a bicep curl---stretching out the tendons. Practice this simple motion 10 times. If there is no pain, repeat four times a day.
Week 2 & Beyond
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The second week starts with the first exercise, but adds a variation---instead of lifting the hand, simply move your hand from outstretched to fingertips touching, as if you were about to kiss your fingers after a delicious meal and say, "Voila!"
Keep your fingers stretched and lift just the problem finger up and down, as if it held its own weight. Begin 12 reps a day, and consult your therapist or doctor before increasing frequency.
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Additional Options
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When you are further along in treatment, ask your therapist or doctor to provide limited activities or functional exercises that pertain to your job or interests, such as using a hammer, a guitar or a broom. Be persistent with whatever exercises your doctor or therapist recommends, following the schedule to get the most benefit from the exercises.
Training systems such as Flextend offers a product and regime to prevent and cure trigger finger problems (see Resources).
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