top of page
Search

Acupuncture Treats Trigger Finger

  • Writer: Bethesda Acupuncture
    Bethesda Acupuncture
  • Feb 27
  • 2 min read

Updated: Apr 4

A smiling woman, wearing long pants, a white coat and a black hat, crouching in nature, near water with a forest background.

Trigger thumb, also known as trigger finger when it affects other digits, causes pain, stiffness, and limited movement when the thumb locks in a bent position. This condition is a type of stenosing tenosynovitis, where inflammation of the tendon sheath restricts smooth tendon movement. While conventional treatments include rest, splinting, corticosteroid injections, and surgery, acupuncture is increasingly recognized as a valuable complementary therapy.


Often caused by repetitive stress, injury, or arthritis, trigger thumb develops when the tendon swells, impeding  movement. Acupuncture targets specific meridian points to enhance blood circulation and stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, potentially reducing inflammation and accelerating recovery.


Recent studies, including one published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, review acupuncture’s effectiveness in alleviating pain, improving joint mobility, and decreasing inflammation — all key factors in treating trigger thumb. While research is ongoing, acupuncture shows promising results. 


Ongoing research suggests that acupuncture provides a promising, effective, and drug-free treatment option for individuals seeking relief from trigger thumb, or trigger finger.  If you would like more information about how acupuncture can help you, it would be our pleasure to schedule a consultation for you. Please contact us at 301.880.3232 or contact@acupuncturebethesda.com 

References:

Hong H, Jeong M, Jo H, Lee S, Kim K, Choi S, Park J, Ha J.  Effectiveness of Acupuncture and Acupotomy for Trigger Finger: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.  J Acupunct Res 2023;40:111-128.  https://doi.org/10.13045/jar.2023.00066


Inoue M, Nakajima M, Hojo T, Itoi M, Kitakoji H. Acupuncture for the treatment of trigger finger in adults: a prospective case series. Acupunct Med. 2016;34(5):392-397. doi:10.1136/acupmed-2016-011068


Qin QG, Fu Y, Shi J, et al. Zhen Ci Yan Jiu. 2020;45(1):57-61. doi:10.13702/j.1000-0607.1906906


Zhang K, Liu P, Geng Z, Zhang B. Acupuncture for trigger finger: a case report. Acupunct Med. 2023;41(3):195-196. doi:10.1177/09645284221146202

This website provides general information only. Content does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for medical guidance.

 
 
bottom of page