Easy home remedies to deal with trigger finger

Trigger finger is a condition where one’s finger gets stuck while bent in a particular position. Often referred to as trigger thumb as well, here the finger may straighten or bend with a snap, similar to that of a trigger being pulled and then released. Trigger finger or stenosing tenosynovitis occurs when the space within a sheath surrounding the tendon of a finger becomes narrower as a result of inflammation. In severe cases, the finger may lock in a completely bent position.

Trigger finger – Treatments
There are different trigger finger treatments available; some of these include home remedies and exercise options. These help one deal with the problem effectively.

Rest the fingers
Resting the fingers is considered to be one of the most effective home remedies when it comes to dealing with trigger finger at home. One needs to ensure that the affected fingers are not stressed due to work for at least three to four weeks, as it is only with proper rest that the healing of the swollen or inflamed tendon is possible. During or post recovery, one is not advised to pressurize the affected finger. Care and caution need to be exercised in this regard.

Try cold compress
Applying a cold compress is an easy, effective, and soothing trigger finger treatment. One needs to apply a cold compress several times on the affected finger. It not only helps in improving the condition of the finger but also helps in reducing the pain and swelling. It is the numbing effect on the nerves that the cold compress feels good on a trigger finger. Thus, you can avail much-awaited relief with this simple trigger finger treatment.

Soak finger in warm water
Just like the cold compress, soaking your fingers in warm water is another great way of getting rid of trigger finger. Soaking the affected fingers in warm water not only helps in relaxing the tendons and muscles but also ensures that the healing process becomes quicker. Regular application of this home remedy can relieve the pain as well as allow easy movement of the fingers. Ensure that the water used is lukewarm and not hot for obtaining the desired results.

Practice stretching exercises regularly
Stretching exercise is not only a must for increased functionality of the fingers but is also a great trigger finger treatment option. The simple and gentle exercise of spreading the fingers wide apart and drawing them together to form a fist can do wonders in eliminating the pain and stiffness that trigger fingers cause. Repeating this same movement around 10 to 15 times throughout the day or as many times as one can is believed to aid the healing process and ensure optimal functioning of the fingers.

Splint the affected finger
Using a splint on the affected fingers for as long as possible can help in subsiding the inflammation and pain. A splint not only helps in keeping the affected finger in a proper position while preventing any movement during its healing period but also ensures that the tendons get proper rest. Using a splint when you sleep helps in preventing the finger from curling up or bending into a fist. When wearing a splint, make sure that it is not too tight as it may end up inhibiting the normal blood circulation and cause the condition of the finger to deteriorate further.

Massage the trigger finger
If you are wondering how to cure trigger finger, massaging the affected finger can be effective. This not only ensures increased blood circulation but also relaxes the finger muscles and reduces inflammation and swelling. One needs to warm some massage oil, dab the warm oil on the trigger finger and then start rubbing and massaging the affected finger gently for around 5 to 10 minutes. Repeating this trigger finger treatment or the massage therapy 2 or 3 times a day can offer promising results.

Do tendon gliding exercise
Tendon gliding is a particular exercise that is known for relieving the scar tissues or tendon adhesions. This exercise is considered to be one of the most effective and easy home remedies for trigger finger treatment. However, for the best results, one needs to do it on a regular basis and correctly. Patience and perseverance is the key here.

Remember, people whose work involves repetitive gripping actions with the fingers, are often at higher risk of suffering from trigger finger. This can affect any finger or more than one finger at a time. In case one experiences that the finger joint has become inflamed and hot opt for immediate medical attention for trigger finger treatment, as these symptoms may be signs of an infection. Witnessing stiffness, numbness, catch or pain in the finger also means you need to consult a doctor immediately.