The conservative treatment of Trigger thumb using Graston Techniques and Active Release Techniques

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Physical Therapy
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Trigger thumb (stenosing tenosynovitis) presents with painful snapping and restricted digit movement.
• Pathology is often multifactorial, involving pulley system variations and biomechanical stress.
• Conventional treatments include corticosteroid injections or surgical intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the therapeutic progress of a trigger thumb patient.
• To evaluate the efficacy of Active Release Technique (ART) and Graston Technique (GT) in managing unresolved symptoms.

Main Methods:

• A conservative treatment regimen combining ART and GT was implemented.
• An activity-specific rehabilitation protocol focused on restoring thumb extensor strength.
• Pain management and inflammation control utilized ice therapy.
• Outcome assessment included subjective pain ratings, range of motion, and motion palpation.

Main Results:

• The patient experienced relief from pain and disability associated with trigger thumb.
• Improvements were noted in subjective pain levels and objective range of motion measurements.
• Motion palpation indicated positive changes in the first right phalangeal joint.

Conclusions:

• The combined use of Graston Technique and Active Release Technique provided a successful conservative treatment for trigger thumb.
• This approach offers a viable alternative for patients with unresolved trigger thumb symptoms.