Acupuncture for Trigger Finger: Evidence-Based Treatment
- Nachaclinic TCM
- Jul 11
- 3 min read
Acupuncture has emerged as a promising non-surgical treatment option for trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis), backed by growing clinical evidence and research studies.
What is Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger occurs when inflammation narrows the space within the sheath that surrounds the tendon of an affected finger, resulting in the locking of that finger in a permanent or semi-permanently bent position. Common symptoms include:
Finger locking or catching when bending/straightening
Clicking or snapping sensation
Pain at the base of the finger
Stiffness and reduced range of motion
Clinical Evidence for Acupuncture
Research Findings: A prospective case series study involving 19 fingers of 15 patients showed that VAS scores for pain and snapping severity were significantly improved immediately after the first treatment (p<0.001), with continued improvement over time reaching statistical significance from the second treatment onwards.
Scientific studies, including case reports, support the efficacy of several types of acupuncture used to treat trigger finger, with effective rates varying from 90.5% to 100%
How Acupuncture Works for Trigger Finger
Mechanisms of Action:
Inflammation Reduction: Acupuncture may reduce inflammation/swelling of the synovial membrane of the tendon sheath, which predominates when the disorder is of short duration
Improved Circulation: Acupuncture improves blood flow, reducing swelling and inflammation in the hours following your appointment
Tension Release: Acupuncture helps release built-up tension, making stiff tendons and ligaments more flexible shortly after your session
Pain Management: Acupuncture breaks down scar tissue and loosens the narrowed tendon sheath, effectively resolving finger lockage and potentially eliminating the need for surgery
Treatment Frequency: The number of treatment sessions varies and may be up to 18 times; frequency and duration can be up to 2–3 times per week . Minor cases may only need weekly appointments, but severe cases may require a more aggressive treatment approach.
Effectiveness and Benefits
Immediate Results: Acupuncture's effects are often immediate, with many patients struggling with trigger finger reporting rapid improvement in their symptoms.
Success Rates: Research indicates high success rates, with some studies showing effectiveness rates between 90-100%. Patients with clinically significant improvements (≥50%) in pain and snapping severity had a significantly shorter duration of the disorder than those with <50% improvement .
Surgical Alternative: In some cases, regular acupuncture sessions can delay surgery, or even eliminate the need for it. Specialized dry needling & neurofunctional acupuncture protocol allowed patients to avoid surgery through specialized trigger finger treatment.
Safety and Considerations
Acupuncture for trigger finger is considered safe with minimal side effects when performed by qualified practitioners. Acupuncture is a non-invasive treatment that has no side effects, so it's safe to use at any time and can be used alongside conventional treatments.
Best Candidates: Treatment appears most effective for patients with shorter duration of symptoms, though acupuncture can be beneficial at any stage of the condition.
The growing body of evidence suggests acupuncture is a viable, effective treatment option for trigger finger that can provide significant symptom relief and potentially eliminate the need for more invasive interventions.
Schedule your treatment today for strong hands that move freely!
📍Location: Nacha Clinic 227 Sukhumvit 77 (Soi On Nut) Phra Khanong Nuea, Watthana Bangkok 10110
🕒Hours: Open 10:00-20:00 Tuesday-Sunday: By appointment only
📱Contact: Tel/Whatsapp: +66 85 593 6654
💬Line: @nachaclinic
Email: nachaclinic@gmail.com
Directions:
🚈A 5-minute walk from BTS On Nut Station (Exit 1) Motorcycle taxi available from the station
🚗 Convenient parking available at Big-C Onnut or Onnut Market