Acupuncture For Trigger Finger
Feeling triggered? Acupuncture can solve your Trigger Finger
If you’ve ever had your finger get stuck in a bent position and then snap straight you’ve experienced first hand, the annoying and painful condition known as Trigger finger.
What is Trigger Finger?
When inflammation narrows the space within the sheath that surrounds the tendon of an affected finger it can result in the locking of that finger in a permanent or semi-permanently bent position. Repetitive gripping actions through work or hobbies are often the culprit and this condition is seen more often in women or those with diabetes.
Symptoms
Finger stiffness, especially first thing in the morning
Popping or clicking with movement
Tenderness or nodules in the palm at the base of the finger
Finger catching or locking in bent position
Finger locked in bent position and unable to straighten
Western Treatment
Your MD may recommend NSAIDs, splints, steroid injections or surgery. All of which can further complicate the issue.
Get Trigger Happy with Acupuncture
Acupuncture works surprisingly well for trigger finger, in fact, I’ve helped dozens of patients reduce or even resolve their issue completely. By needling points around the affected area we are able to gently release the constriction or stagnation that’s blocking the smooth motion of the tendon. Additionally, by injecting homeopathic Traumeel into the affected area, we can reduce inflammation and pain while promoting healing. Moxibustion, a form of herbal heat therapy can be applied to the hand and finger as well to help increase blood flow and warm away arthritis.
Five steps you can take right now to reduce your trigger finger:
Schedule an Acupuncture treatment
Start taking vitamin B6. B6 Pyridoxine has been shown in studies to significantly reduce trigger finger in many adults, especially those with swollen hands. Take the P-5-P version of B6 to avoid toxicity at 25-50 mgs daily.
Take magnesium: magnesium not only amplifies the effects of B6, but also encourages muscle relaxation and calms the nervous system.
Try some stretches; check out a few here.
Self massage the palm and any nodules along the finger joint.