I had trigger thumb on both hands. After researching the internet, I decided to quit sugar. Within a week, both thumbs were fine! It's been about 2 years now. Grateful!
Trigger thumb started in January this year (2024). Have been carnivore for the last 2 months (zero sugar/few carbs) and I STILL have my trigger thumb 3 months later. Lack of sugar/carbs has done ZERO for my trigger thumb.
@@annkrueger23 wow, strange they BOTH hit you on the same day! Two non working thumbs must be an drastic disability to have happen overnight without warning. Do you still have the issue? What helped, if anything?
@@usaman7358 I still have trigger thumbs, 3½ months now. I wear Oval-8 braces and do a lot of massage. They still trigger, but at least the pain is much better.
I don’t know if you’ve heard this before, but I’ve been doing keto since February and haven’t had a problem with my trigger finger since then. I think it’s because I’ve reduced inflammation in my whole body.
I used a cold pack on mine then massaged the pulley area with my forefinger, digging in deep until it got too painful. I would then stretch the thumb pulling it straight. During the day i put it in a splint to rest it during work. Once home i would ice it, massage and then extend. I did this several times a night and by the 5th day i was pain free with my thumb working well again. I cancelled my appointment with my hand surgeon and daily do the massage and stretch exercises just to prevent any re-occurrence.
A couple of years ago, I got a Trigger Thumb. I hadn't discovered you two great guys yet so I did my own research as to how the thumb worked to figure out what might be wrong. When I learned that inflammation might be causing a nodule, I felt for it and I found it. So I took an anti-inflammatory pill (actually I just took an aspirin) and began massaging it regularly to get rid of that "knot". It went away after a few days but then I began to wonder what caused it. After examining the various ways I was using my hands, I realized that the only thing that was different from my usual ways of using my hands was that for a couple of weeks, I had been using my thumb to push up on a lever on a little contraption that I had. Previously, I had used my entire hand to push that lever but when it became slightly "sticky", I found I had an easier time pushing it with my thumb. Once I stopped doing that, the trigger thumb never came back. So, for me, massage really worked as did figuring out what was causing it in the first place.
I had trigger thumb a year ago and I did research myself didn’t know you guys then. I wore a soft thumb brace during the day, off at night. Massaged my thumb several times a day and it went away after a few weeks. Great video guys !
About 10 years ago I had surgery for my trigger thumb on my right hand. Now a few weeks ago it started on my left thumb. I definitely will be trying this. Thank you guys.👍
compression gloves help when you do work that stresses your hands. Squeezing a sponge ball or putty strengthens the hands and makes it easier to use them. Sleeping with the gloves on also helps. This in my experience.
I had trigger finger on both middle fingers of both hands. Fingers were swollen & painful. I had injections into each hand. They worked great but did not last. The doctor told me that 2 shots into each hand is the limit. After that I ended up getting surgery to release the fingers in 2019. Surgery was quick and easy. Now my fingers are like new with no problems.
I had the surgery for my left middle finger 4 weeks ago. I’ve been able to use my hand almost normally but at night the tendon-pulley area stiffens up and its very painful to get things moving again. Hope this problem goes away with more healing time. Or I may be in the 10% where the surgery is not a success 😢
A few months ago I was suffering from trigger finger in my ring finger on my right hand. I had been suffering with it for about a year. I believe it may be due to the fact that I have started driving a lot for my job. It was very painful after a while. I bought a CopperFit Ice glove (the kind with the finger tips cut off). I wore it every day and it worked!!!! Even though I no longer suffer, I still wear my glove everyday.
I love that you’re doing the exercises with us, it helps quite a lot. I had trigger finger surgery 2 months ago and my hand was really stiff and ‘curled’. I’m getting a much better range of motion after only a couple days of exercises and it keeps improving. Can’t thank you enough😁👍
I had trigger finger in a finger that went away after 3 years and then I got it in 2 fingers in each hand. No therapy helped and I got injections but I can feel the nodules now again...it's been 5 months since the injections and the pain is coming back. This can become an extremely painful, disabling condition...I couldn't do anything with my hands and the pain would wake me. These massages can help most cases but severe cases will need medical intervention. Thanks for making this video.
Thanks! I tried an injection and it worked for a few months. My wife had the surgery a couple years ago and its pretty quick and easy, but if these exercises work, I’ll let the surgeon cut on someone else. Great information!
I have trigger finger but when I stick to a keto diet the trigger finger goes away. It will take about a month of the keto diet before the inflammation is reduced enough to have a smooth finger movement. Apparently the inflammation goes away with the reduced carbs. However if I get off the keto diet for a few days the trigger finger comes back. Then I get back on the diet again & it goes away in a few days. Give the keto diet a month & & stick to it to see if it works for you.
@@rebeccaw68 Keto is the only one that works for me. Just cut off the sugar & carbs as much as possible if you can’t do the keto life style. Sugar is the culprit. The intermittent fasting helps also.
So glad I ran into your video! I have arthritis in both thumbs that seemed to be minor up until now. A couple of weeks ago I developed a trigger thumb in my right hand and I've been wearing a thumb brace that helps support it. It has been very painful so I am looking forward to trying the stretches and exercises for it that you recommend in this video. Thanks for the info!
I've been through the gauntlet when it comes to hand problems. First off, I've been a type 1 diabetic ( a healthy one) for 31 years. I've also worked for Costco for almost 20 years now and was in the bakery for 18 of them. With the high output of work and constant gripping, twisting and pinching, I've had trigger finger in 6 fingers, carpal tunnel in both hands and also DeQuervains in both wrists. ALL of which I've had surgeries on. So I understand everyone's pain! The only reason I didn't want to do the steroid injections were because it would only be short lived with the nature of my job, and early onset with the diabetes. My first trigger finger was at the age of 20, after working in the bakery for 5 years only. I will say though, after the surgeries, the issues never came back to the respective areas! The DeQuervains surgeries sometimes cause a weakness in my grip when doing certain activities or cooking, but overall it's been fine. I switched jobs recently to stocking and the gripping has caused a trigger thumb. I'm going to try the exercises, but I have a feeling my 11th hand surgery is coming. :/
Thank you for the pulley demonstration and for sharing that most of the time surgery is not needed. I'm a senior who started having thumb trouble over a month ago. Maybe because I've not yet rid my diet of inflammation causing foods, maybe because I use the computer extensively every day and maybe because my elderly mom had operations for it on both of her middle fingers. Probably a combination of them all. I don't know if my mom had to have the operations or if the doctors were just surgery-happy but she's gone now. Was watching a lady health professional on YT recently who was showing her band-aid technique to help the condition heal. I tried medical tape that night at bedtime around the top joint of my thumb. The next morning miraculously the pain in the bottom joint at my hand was gone, even when I pressed the area. It hurt so much before. The clicking at the top joint was less. I've been wearing the tape 24/7 for now. I change it out every day and wash the area because others who also are doing this said they have gotten skin irritation.
I’ve had trigger thumb. Man, It is painful 😣. Thumb brace helped little. Ice and massage were temporary fixes. Steroid shots finally alleviated the problem. It took about 3 shots many months apart for the pain to fully subside. The minor surgery was my next option. My Best to anyone dealing with this nagging issue!
@Valleygirl4lifeCreations @Traine05 Not OP, but I had the shots. The doctor/PA should spray your hand first to numb it before the injections, so the injection itself (the needle) doesn't really hurt. It's uncomfortable because they are injecting this liquid into a small space (i.e., your finger). Your finger will swell up for a few days. It took about 7 days for the injections to work for me, and they lasted about six months. I'm currently trying to decide if I want to do them again (I have 2 trigger fingers). The injections are actually into the hand at the base of the finger. Good luck. :)
@@davidacurtis hi sir, tq yoy for the reply, i had the steroud too, but why many people saya it only last for fee month only. I also had it twice, sometimes i have try my ny best not to use the trigger finger for other work, but but 5month later it came back, doc only say the shot only can be taken maximum 2 time only
Oh my heavens! You may have just changed my life! I worked my trigger finger while watching this video and was able to go from bending my finger and hearing the pop and feeling the pain to bending my finger with no pain and no pop. And I now understand it better. Thank you!
💙 Oh my gosh !!! I first acquired trigger thumb, and then a few months later, trigger finger in two fingers. (On my left hand, even though I'm right-handed~ I use both) THEN a few later, it began in two fingers on my right hand, as well ! 😩 All the while, I continued baking and hand mixing throughout excruciating pain and continual "locking." Ugh !! 😞 I wrapped them all in surgical in tape to just to keep them from locking up. It was SO PAINFUL. My orthopedist said I could get a cortisone injection, yet I wanted to avoid it if possible. Soooooo ... I began these exercises and stretches a few months ago ... which actually really hurt, yet I kept them up. WOW !!!!! 😮 Although there is still minimal clicking now, none are LOCKING anymore !!😄 It is AMAZING. The freedom I have once again is bringing me SO much joy ! Thank Y💜U guys SO MUCH. 🥲
Oh mine finally after two decades became SEVERELY painful….like a spear being thrust into my hand. I fear that I am headed for the injections. I had been able to do all you have said until now L middle finger won’t bend without severe pain! Going to watch next videos on this too. Love you guys and prayers to encourage you Bob! You have much wisdom for us.
Thanks for the explanation of WHY my thumb is having trouble. I wish I would have checked w/you sooner 🤦🏼♀️ I bought Turmeric Curcumin for the inflammation and will incorporate your recommendations while I wait for the referral from my doctor to respond…Love your channel. Blessings 🙏🏼
That demo five minutes in with the rope and pulley is excellent! Whole video is excellent! I've had trigger finger since 2014. Got better when i switched from normal coffee to a mix of 1/2 decaf + 1/2 rocket fuel. Maybe coincidence. But a few hours ago the one finger most affected bent and now it's stuck. Tugging on it doesn't feel right. Trying to straighten it, nope, i fear pain or damage. Thanks to your video and several others, I know it's not Dupuytren's or anything else, and have an idea what's going on internally, and have some idea what treatments exist.
@@00clgordon I can't bend that finger all the way, or rather, I don't dare try to bend that finger, the left ring finger, more than what's comfortable with no force, for fear of it becoming stuck again. I can bend it as far as the fingertip being about an inch or two from the palm of the hand, no closer. I can play guitar (in terms of fingers, not talent) and everything's fine for normal everyday life. Typing on this keyboard right now, no problem. I won't be seeing a doctor or trying any homebrew treatments (see chubbyemu's channel for some hilarious amateur home treatments but I digress) with everyday usage being fine.
@@00clgordon Also, I mix coffee from three bags: two decaf, one genuine rocket fuel. 1/3 strength works fine for other reasons too, such as reducing overall tension and avoiding sleepiness in the afternoon. I sprinkle in every cup a bit of ginger powder, which is anti-inflammatory.
@@00clgordon (Odd, I wrote two comments but the first never appeared.) I can bend that finger, the left ring finger, most of the way. Fingertip reaches about an inch or two of the palm but no closer. It was stuck bent until one day I was doing yard work cleaning up debris and a plastic bag loop caught on that finger and yanked it straight. Pain! But that faded after a few minutes, and that finger was straight, somewhat flexible. Soon after I could use it normally. Typing on this keyboard right now, no problem. I can play guitar, at least in terms of finger motion not talent. I won't be seeing a doctor or applying any homemade treatment, as it's fine for normal everyday life and "if it ain't broke don't fix it"
@@DrunkenUFOPilot Both of my thumbs are affected. It seems odd that they would both have this at the same time. I am wondering if it’s due to inflammation throughout my body. I need a natural fix for it. You are a trooper dealing with this for so long. I have only had this for a month.
Wow! I had no idea there were so many options! My 15 year old had trigger thumb surgery at Shriners Hospital when he was only 18 months old. They treated both thumbs bc while only one was stuck in a bent position, the other was already growing a nodule. Not sure if it was considered congenital or not but we have no idea what could've caused it in both thumbs at such a young age. He handled the surgery very well and recovered like a champ. Sometimes he has irritation in one or both if he plays too much guitar or video games but nothing that a little gentle massaging can't help. I also have a touch of it in my thumbs if I do too much with my hands. I am an artist and work with all kinds of materials so as long as I take breaks and stretch, it's not too bad. My thumbs are also "double jointed" or hyper mobile so maybe that is why? Curious.. is this heredity? My aunt had surgery for trigger thumb, too. 🤷🏻♀️
I think there definitely can be an inherited tendency to have trigger finger/thumb. My father had trigger thumb, my older brother and sister have it and I woke up with it a few weeks ago. I am doing the exercises recommended in this video and hope that they will work ❤
My hands feel like I hold them clenched in my sleep. It progressed into my middle and ring finger in both hands not being able to make a painless fist. Then the catch when I tried to bend fingers. Thank you so very , very much . I tried the cross...massage and it WORKS for my fingers. Thank you a million times and more. Peace and Perfect-Health to you and yours.
I'm so happy to watch this video for trying to reverse this trigger finger. I live alone so I have to work on this myself between therapy every week. THANKS GUYS 💞 Blessings To The Both Of You 🙌🏾
Thank you; I am definitely filing this video for reference. About 25 years ago I had trigger thumb in both thumbs at the same time, a rarity which the doctor said she had never seen before and I said you can’t say that anymore, and had surgery. All OK with the thumbs BUT After that I had trigger finger in both hands middle & ringer fingers. I had cortisone/novocaine injections in each finger. The specialist said a maximum of 3 injections per finger, after that surgery. So far so good - minor surgery avoided. Thank you again.
I could barely flex my pinky finger before watching this. Your pressure and massage treatment is working for me. Thank you! By the end of watching this, I can flex my finger more now but it's still a bit poppy and clicky but I'll continue massaging it for a while with the hope it goes away for good.
I have the same problem with my pinky finger. I was just diagnosed with Trigger Finger. The doc wanted to give me a cortisone shot, but I have glaucoma. The steroids in the shot would raise my eye pressure. My finger becomes painful to move (with popping) anytime I'm sedentary (sleeping or too much sitting). Once I'm out of bed or busy doing tasks I don't have any problems. I have been doing the massaging and flexing in the mornings and it has helped. I really don't want a shot and the doc stated if I couldn't get the shot, I would be a candidate for surgery. I don't want that either. Good luck.
I had never heard of this. I watched it hoping that it might have something to do with the problem I've had with my right thumb for about 20 years. But it doesn't seem to be related. I've never had an official diagnosis, but I think I might have focal dystonia in the base of my thumb, caused by a repetitive use injury. The pain and inflammation went away after months of accupuncture treatments, but I never fully regained control over the motion. Fortunately it doesn't keep me from typing so I can use the computer for my work. And most of the time it doesn't bother me during the day. But I don't have much control over the movement of that thumb, especially fine motor control like trying to pick up a small object between my thumb and first finger. When it bothers me the most is when I'm trying to go to sleep at night and the thumb curls in and won't let me completely relax my hand. How about doing a video on ways that I could improve the muscle tone in the base of my thumb?
Me too.. I tried a makeshift splint, and slept with it. I woke up i so much pain. It was so stiff. It’s ring finger on dominant hand 21 yrs of repetition on job. Thanks for the vide guys Good luck to you my friend
I just came across your video and I have been experiencing trigger finger for a couple years now and my doctor said it was arthritis but did not really give me any remedy for it. I just tried massaging it for 30 seconds just as you suggested and I could already fold and make a fist with my finger. I will keep doing this and thank you for this informative video!
Can you do one for dupuytrens contracture? I used to work for a surgeon and they said it’s only correctable by surgery. I don’t believe it and would like to know your opinions!
I had it badly, the most important thing at first is to REST, if I had listened to the docs I'd have worse issues. today was the first time playing my guitar in a while, have faith and rest and give yourself proper nutrition and then worry about the stretching and rehab
Thanks! About five to seven years ago I started getting trigger thumb in my left thumb. I realized I had a death grip on my iPhone 6+ (that first really big iPhone model) and a lot of the phone’s weight rested on my left thumb. I broke the death grip habit, and the trigger thumb went away. Yay! Fast forward five or so years, and I developed trigger finger in my left ring finger. I can’t determine a cause for it (I use a PopSocket, and I hold the PopSocket between my first and second fingers; the third finger isn’t bearing weight). I’ve been ignoring/babying it, but it’s getting locked more frequently. It’s also reached the point where I can’t force it straight without using my right hand. It was locked when I decided to look up videos about it. I massaged that pulley and the nodule for about a minute or two. Not gonna lie, after about 10 seconds I stopped and cried out in pain. But it subsided and I started again. I was shocked when, without even consciously trying to straighten my finger, it popped up. Yay! I’m on so many meds at this point, I’d like to avoid taking NSAIDs on the daily. I’m definitely going to keep massaging the nodule and pulley as well as stretching the fingers. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Thanks for the video! I have minor trigger finger on the middle finger in that it sticks and clicks then frees up just the once at various times in the day, so the video helps a lot, thanks again.. I'm not doing too bad at 67 and trying to keep running with mild knee arthritis and do your stretches for knees and ankle. 👍
After receiving injections and acupuncture to treat recurring incidents in different fingers, I figured out the underlying reason and realized that I was sleeping with my head resting on the clenched fist of the affected arm and this was causing the inflammation.
Wow guys! Thanks! My pinky finger started clicking just a couple days ago, and you helped me find relief before the end of this video. 👍🏻 Excellent work, gentlemen! 🎉🥳🎉
My wife has a trigger finger ever since she got bit by a neighbor’s donkey. It damaged the joint of her ring finger. Wearing a bandaid 🩹 around the joint helps a lot.
I had trigger thumb last year, and with your UA-cam videos, and another hand therapist, I did everything to cure it. Well I couldn’t take the pain and it just wouldn’t go away, so into the doctor I went and got a shot of steroid. It was extremely painful for a few long seconds, but it worked! That was about six months ago and I’ll be darned it’s back!😢 So I’m gonna keep trying to do what you recommend and hopefully it works! I also have plantar fasciitis and have done all the exercises and ice etc., you and my foot doctor recommend. I had custom orthotics, a couple steroid shots in my heel ( they are quite painful 😣), and it seems to go away and recently it had reared its ugly head and I’m so frustrated with it! I’m a healthy person, walk at least four days a week, vegetarian, not on any medication, take a few supplements/vitamins. I just hope I don’t need another shot - I truly don’t want to have any more steroids than necessary. Okay I’ve rambled on enough! LOL - Thanks for all your videos- they truly are helpful and I recommend your channel to everyone.
Just spray lidocaine around the finger that's being affected down the back of the hand and around your wrist rub it your trigger finger or trigger thumb will dull and you will be able to use your hand it takes about 15 minutes
I play darts, and my thumb has become a real issue over the last few years. I went to a physio and they said it was an overuse injury. I simply cannot use it as freely as I useto, I also play guitar and find the more I do of either, it makes it worse which completely limits practice in both.
I have been dealing with this for a while. First my right hand, then my left hand. Right now I have trigger thumb and trigger finger on both my ring finger and my pinkie. Thank you for this video!
Do you know the underlying cause? May it be diet related? I ask because my my hand became slightly swollen when my first finger developed into a trigger finger. Now, 6 months later the thumb and first finger on the other hand are triggering, plus my right shoulder and hip joints are becoming uncomfortable. It's as though a pencil point is being pushed into them.
Making that pulley model was very cool, we trigger-fingered people absolutely felt it! When I woke up yesterday I noticed my finger locked. It was the first time I get this condition which was not pleasant at all (no pain at least), so I made a DIY cast with a rolled piece of paper tissue taped behind my finger across all its length. I slept with it because I feared the locking would appear again, and I liked that it restricts movement without making it impossible. I hope this will help get better sooner! 🤞🤞🤞
Thank you for sharing this information. I am a hairstylist, and I have a trigger thumb and a trigger fore finger. I started taping it and using ice but wonder if it is getting weak. I have changed the way I tape it now and will do the stretches and pray it goes away. Thanks again!
This worked for me! I have watched many UA-cam videos and done the stretching and exercising. None of this helped to any degree. I tried the kinesio tape and immediately my joint (middle finger) stopped catching. I still get occasional catching but minimal. I'm keeping cut pieces of tape handy to replace as needed. Hopefully this will give the joint a chance to heal. Thanks for the great tip. (Male - 75 years old).
Thanks. I had the tendon release surgery on my left thumb many years ago. Now my right thumb is starting to act up. I'm going to try these therapies, and hopefully avoid surgery.
Thank you Bob and Brad, appreciate so much for your information given, I noticed I had trigger finger on my left hand middle finger recently, I tried few times by rubbing and I noticed it work on my middle, I will continue doing it. Thanks a lot, appreciate much
I've had trigger thumb for about a month now and have read taking a Vitamin B6 P5P daily can make a big difference, has anyone used this for trigger finger?
Whaaaa? Just got a steroid shot in the thumb last Friday. How do you produce vids on my timeline? Ha ha. Was told it wasn't trigger though. Just arthritis. I'm 61, so okay, I accept it. However the shot was the most painful thing! Now it's sore, and feels like a rubber band snapping. Hope it recovers. No PT prescribed by surgeon. I'm Ambi now. Haha. Thanks guys!
My Brother had this for a really long time, we all thought because he was a Golfer. My index finger on right hand has been triggered since 2019...it's bent at the knuckle; have no idea how I did it...
Thank you both for this video. It is helping already although It may not be a trigger thumb as I was told. I woke up one morning after months of severe illness with my thumb flat against my palm. The problem is at the 3rd joint down by the wrist & I have great trouble extending the thumb & opening my palm.
If my thumb can’t bend at the mid joint, do we do the same exercises? Would that even be a trigger thumb if its at the mid joint rather than the base of the thumb?
I went to doctor yesterday told them my hip and back hurts woke up this morning my ring finger is stuck🤷🏽♀️so here I am.. Last time my arm was stuck I think it's a nerve in my neck or back
![Carpal Tunnel Syndrome - Everything You Need To Know [Diagnosis & Natural Treatment]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EaUfxiRw3EQ/mqdefault.jpg)
I had trigger thumb on both hands. After researching the internet, I decided to quit sugar. Within a week, both thumbs were fine! It's been about 2 years now. Grateful!
I've been without sugar and grains for almost 7 years. One morning, about 2 months ago I woke up with trigger thumb in both thumbs.
Trigger thumb started in January this year (2024). Have been carnivore for the last 2 months (zero sugar/few carbs) and I STILL have my trigger thumb 3 months later. Lack of sugar/carbs has done ZERO for my trigger thumb.
@@annkrueger23 wow, strange they BOTH hit you on the same day! Two non working thumbs must be an drastic disability to have happen overnight without warning. Do you still have the issue? What helped, if anything?
@@usaman7358 I still have trigger thumbs, 3½ months now. I wear Oval-8 braces and do a lot of massage. They still trigger, but at least the pain is much better.
@@annkrueger23both thumbs at the same time for me. It’s awful!!
This fixed my trigger thumb! Thank you I was able to avoid surgery! You are the best physical therapists on the Internet!❤
Mine just keeps getting worse
@@oquongudoh5435did you find anything to help your thumb yet ? I have it bad
I don’t know if you’ve heard this before, but I’ve been doing keto since February and haven’t had a problem with my trigger finger since then. I think it’s because I’ve reduced inflammation in my whole body.
Brad’s demo on how trigger finger happens - BRILLIANT!
I used a cold pack on mine then massaged the pulley area with my forefinger, digging in deep until it got too painful. I would then stretch the thumb pulling it straight. During the day i put it in a splint to rest it during work. Once home i would ice it, massage and then extend. I did this several times a night and by the 5th day i was pain free with my thumb working well again. I cancelled my appointment with my hand surgeon and daily do the massage and stretch exercises just to prevent any re-occurrence.
Bad news for that surgeon's yacht dealer, but great news for you!
Record a video dude!
I will try this. I just got trigger finger now
A couple of years ago, I got a Trigger Thumb. I hadn't discovered you two great guys yet so I did my own research as to how the thumb worked to figure out what might be wrong. When I learned that inflammation might be causing a nodule, I felt for it and I found it. So I took an anti-inflammatory pill (actually I just took an aspirin) and began massaging it regularly to get rid of that "knot". It went away after a few days but then I began to wonder what caused it. After examining the various ways I was using my hands, I realized that the only thing that was different from my usual ways of using my hands was that for a couple of weeks, I had been using my thumb to push up on a lever on a little contraption that I had. Previously, I had used my entire hand to push that lever but when it became slightly "sticky", I found I had an easier time pushing it with my thumb. Once I stopped doing that, the trigger thumb never came back. So, for me, massage really worked as did figuring out what was causing it in the first place.
Yvuguguvuvu
My life would not be the same without you guys. Thank you so much for making these videos.
I had trigger thumb a year ago and I did research myself didn’t know you guys then. I wore a soft thumb brace during the day, off at night. Massaged my thumb several times a day and it went away after a few weeks. Great video guys !
I’ve had it for months…so over it
About 10 years ago I had surgery for my trigger thumb on my right hand. Now a few weeks ago it started on my left thumb. I definitely will be trying this. Thank you guys.👍
This was really helpful. Thank you so much! You don't realize how much you need your thumb until you can't use it properly . : )
Thanks guys, my trigger finger is totally gone. It took more than a year of working at it. I never thought it would ever heal.
Yikes! Long time
compression gloves help when you do work that stresses your hands. Squeezing a sponge ball or putty strengthens the hands and makes it easier to use them. Sleeping with the gloves on also helps. This in my experience.
But make sure you need them. I thought the balls might help my hand pain but using them caused me to get PT as it made my trigger thumb worse
I had trigger finger on both middle fingers of both hands. Fingers were swollen & painful. I had injections into each hand. They worked great but did not last. The doctor told me that 2 shots into each hand is the limit. After that I ended up getting surgery to release the fingers in 2019. Surgery was quick and easy. Now my fingers are like new with no problems.
That is great to hear - it's really great when surgery works!!
I had the surgery for my left middle finger 4 weeks ago. I’ve been able to use my hand almost normally but at night the tendon-pulley area stiffens up and its very painful to get things moving again. Hope this problem goes away with more healing time. Or I may be in the 10% where the surgery is not a success 😢
I love you guys. Bad back, trigger thumb. You are so brilliant in explaining simply what to do help yourself.
A few months ago I was suffering from trigger finger in my ring finger on my right hand. I had been suffering with it for about a year. I believe it may be due to the fact that I have started driving a lot for my job. It was very painful after a while. I bought a CopperFit Ice glove (the kind with the finger tips cut off). I wore it every day and it worked!!!! Even though I no longer suffer, I still wear my glove everyday.
I’ve had trigger thumb for six months now. It is worse in the morning and at night. I’m going to wrap it. Thank you
Thank you, Bob and Brad. Now I have a name for my trigger thumb. And thanks to this video, I know how to start treating it. You two are awesome!
did you thumb get healed?
I love that you’re doing the exercises with us, it helps quite a lot. I had trigger finger surgery 2 months ago and my hand was really stiff and ‘curled’. I’m getting a much better range of motion after only a couple days of exercises and it keeps improving. Can’t thank you enough😁👍
I had trigger finger in a finger that went away after 3 years and then I got it in 2 fingers in each hand. No therapy helped and I got injections but I can feel the nodules now again...it's been 5 months since the injections and the pain is coming back. This can become an extremely painful, disabling condition...I couldn't do anything with my hands and the pain would wake me. These massages can help most cases but severe cases will need medical intervention. Thanks for making this video.
I hit mine aggressively with my massage gun and had great results. Basically the sore site near base of affected fingers and thumbs.
Thanks! I tried an injection and it worked for a few months. My wife had the surgery a couple years ago and its pretty quick and easy, but if these exercises work, I’ll let the surgeon cut on someone else. Great information!
Me too!
I have trigger finger but when I stick to a keto diet the trigger finger goes away. It will take about a month of the keto diet before the inflammation is reduced enough to have a smooth finger movement. Apparently the inflammation goes away with the reduced carbs. However if I get off the keto diet for a few days the trigger finger comes back. Then I get back on the diet again & it goes away in a few days. Give the keto diet a month & & stick to it to see if it works for you.
Keto is unhealthy on many levels high fat oil etc is inflammatory for heart, IGF-1 growth hormone for cancer…especially with no fiber
@@tradingwithwill7214 Try telling that to all the people that have benefited from the Keto way of living . Stick to trading Will.
Wow, you confirmed what I thought would work. Thank you! Just as people say to do other diets for a while, this one does too.
@@Rock1360 What diet works after you stop doing it? Name one.
@@rebeccaw68 Keto is the only one that works for me. Just cut off the sugar & carbs as much as possible if you can’t do the keto life style. Sugar is the culprit. The intermittent fasting helps also.
Bob I think you’re a hero you’re still going and brad you rock!.✨✨💜💜
Thank you for this video!! Loved the pulley demonstration-such a relief to know why this painful thing happening. Exercises helping already!
Bingo! I have 2 fingers on right hand and 1 on the left. Your fix worked immediately. Thanks so much.
So glad I ran into your video! I have arthritis in both thumbs that seemed to be minor up until now. A couple of weeks ago I developed a trigger thumb in my right hand and I've been wearing a thumb brace that helps support it. It has been very painful so I am looking forward to trying the stretches and exercises for it that you recommend in this video. Thanks for the info!
L m shack for you
I've been through the gauntlet when it comes to hand problems. First off, I've been a type 1 diabetic ( a healthy one) for 31 years. I've also worked for Costco for almost 20 years now and was in the bakery for 18 of them. With the high output of work and constant gripping, twisting and pinching, I've had trigger finger in 6 fingers, carpal tunnel in both hands and also DeQuervains in both wrists. ALL of which I've had surgeries on. So I understand everyone's pain! The only reason I didn't want to do the steroid injections were because it would only be short lived with the nature of my job, and early onset with the diabetes. My first trigger finger was at the age of 20, after working in the bakery for 5 years only. I will say though, after the surgeries, the issues never came back to the respective areas! The DeQuervains surgeries sometimes cause a weakness in my grip when doing certain activities or cooking, but overall it's been fine. I switched jobs recently to stocking and the gripping has caused a trigger thumb. I'm going to try the exercises, but I have a feeling my 11th hand surgery is coming. :/
Thank you for the pulley demonstration and for sharing that most of the time surgery is not needed. I'm a senior who started having thumb trouble over a month ago.
Maybe because I've not yet rid my diet of inflammation causing foods, maybe because I use the computer extensively every day and maybe because my elderly mom had operations for it on both of her middle fingers. Probably a combination of them all. I don't know if my mom had to have the operations or if the doctors were just surgery-happy but she's gone now.
Was watching a lady health professional on YT recently who was showing her band-aid technique to help the condition heal. I tried medical tape that night at bedtime around the top joint of my thumb. The next morning miraculously the pain in the bottom joint at my hand was gone, even when I pressed the area. It hurt so much before. The clicking at the top joint was less.
I've been wearing the tape 24/7 for now. I change it out every day and wash the area because others who also are doing this said they have gotten skin irritation.
What a great demonstration. Thank you.
I’ve had trigger thumb.
Man, It is painful 😣.
Thumb brace helped little. Ice and massage were temporary fixes.
Steroid shots finally alleviated the problem. It took about 3 shots many months apart for the pain to fully subside.
The minor surgery was my next option. My Best to anyone dealing with this nagging issue!
did the shots hurt?
@@Traine05 I want to know too if the shots hurt bad
How your tubm now? Did u do the surgery? Did your tubm feel numbness all the time?
@Valleygirl4lifeCreations @Traine05 Not OP, but I had the shots. The doctor/PA should spray your hand first to numb it before the injections, so the injection itself (the needle) doesn't really hurt. It's uncomfortable because they are injecting this liquid into a small space (i.e., your finger). Your finger will swell up for a few days. It took about 7 days for the injections to work for me, and they lasted about six months. I'm currently trying to decide if I want to do them again (I have 2 trigger fingers). The injections are actually into the hand at the base of the finger. Good luck. :)
@@davidacurtis hi sir, tq yoy for the reply, i had the steroud too, but why many people saya it only last for fee month only. I also had it twice, sometimes i have try my ny best not to use the trigger finger for other work, but but 5month later it came back, doc only say the shot only can be taken maximum 2 time only
Oh my heavens! You may have just changed my life! I worked my trigger finger while watching this video and was able to go from bending my finger and hearing the pop and feeling the pain to bending my finger with no pain and no pop. And I now understand it better. Thank you!
💙
Oh my gosh !!!
I first acquired trigger thumb, and then a few months later, trigger finger in two fingers.
(On my left hand, even though I'm right-handed~ I use both)
THEN a few later, it began in two fingers on my right hand, as well ! 😩
All the while, I continued baking and hand mixing throughout excruciating pain and continual "locking."
Ugh !! 😞
I wrapped them all in surgical in tape to just to keep them from locking up.
It was SO PAINFUL.
My orthopedist said I could get a cortisone injection, yet I wanted to avoid it if possible.
Soooooo ...
I began these exercises and stretches a few months ago ...
which actually really hurt, yet I kept them up.
WOW !!!!! 😮
Although there is still minimal clicking now, none are LOCKING anymore !!😄
It is AMAZING.
The freedom I have once again is bringing me SO much joy !
Thank Y💜U guys SO MUCH. 🥲
Oh mine finally after two decades became SEVERELY painful….like a spear being thrust into my hand. I fear that I am headed for the injections. I had been able to do all you have said until now L middle finger won’t bend without severe pain! Going to watch next videos on this too. Love you guys and prayers to encourage you Bob! You have much wisdom for us.
🤩 been watching you guys for awhile...great attitude in explaining wats going on a relief! sleep, lower back, stretching...thanks a million guys!
The last exercise helped me so much!! Thanks Bob and Brad!
This absolutely worked on my middle finger.
Thank you fellas!😊
Great to hear!
These guys are absolutely priceless.
So generous.
Thanks for the explanation of WHY my thumb is having trouble. I wish I would have checked w/you sooner 🤦🏼♀️ I bought Turmeric Curcumin for the inflammation and will incorporate your recommendations while I wait for the referral from my doctor to respond…Love your channel. Blessings 🙏🏼
Every time i watch you video, you give me the exact solution i need...you are great...you methods really helps me alot.
That demo five minutes in with the rope and pulley is excellent! Whole video is excellent! I've had trigger finger since 2014. Got better when i switched from normal coffee to a mix of 1/2 decaf + 1/2 rocket fuel. Maybe coincidence. But a few hours ago the one finger most affected bent and now it's stuck. Tugging on it doesn't feel right. Trying to straighten it, nope, i fear pain or damage. Thanks to your video and several others, I know it's not Dupuytren's or anything else, and have an idea what's going on internally, and have some idea what treatments exist.
How is it now?
@@00clgordon I can't bend that finger all the way, or rather, I don't dare try to bend that finger, the left ring finger, more than what's comfortable with no force, for fear of it becoming stuck again. I can bend it as far as the fingertip being about an inch or two from the palm of the hand, no closer. I can play guitar (in terms of fingers, not talent) and everything's fine for normal everyday life. Typing on this keyboard right now, no problem. I won't be seeing a doctor or trying any homebrew treatments (see chubbyemu's channel for some hilarious amateur home treatments but I digress) with everyday usage being fine.
@@00clgordon Also, I mix coffee from three bags: two decaf, one genuine rocket fuel. 1/3 strength works fine for other reasons too, such as reducing overall tension and avoiding sleepiness in the afternoon. I sprinkle in every cup a bit of ginger powder, which is anti-inflammatory.
@@00clgordon (Odd, I wrote two comments but the first never appeared.) I can bend that finger, the left ring finger, most of the way. Fingertip reaches about an inch or two of the palm but no closer. It was stuck bent until one day I was doing yard work cleaning up debris and a plastic bag loop caught on that finger and yanked it straight. Pain! But that faded after a few minutes, and that finger was straight, somewhat flexible. Soon after I could use it normally. Typing on this keyboard right now, no problem. I can play guitar, at least in terms of finger motion not talent. I won't be seeing a doctor or applying any homemade treatment, as it's fine for normal everyday life and "if it ain't broke don't fix it"
@@DrunkenUFOPilot Both of my thumbs are affected. It seems odd that they would both have this at the same time. I am wondering if it’s due to inflammation throughout my body. I need a natural fix for it. You are a trooper dealing with this for so long. I have only had this for a month.
Wow! I had no idea there were so many options! My 15 year old had trigger thumb surgery at Shriners Hospital when he was only 18 months old. They treated both thumbs bc while only one was stuck in a bent position, the other was already growing a nodule. Not sure if it was considered congenital or not but we have no idea what could've caused it in both thumbs at such a young age. He handled the surgery very well and recovered like a champ. Sometimes he has irritation in one or both if he plays too much guitar or video games but nothing that a little gentle massaging can't help.
I also have a touch of it in my thumbs if I do too much with my hands. I am an artist and work with all kinds of materials so as long as I take breaks and stretch, it's not too bad. My thumbs are also "double jointed" or hyper mobile so maybe that is why?
Curious.. is this heredity? My aunt had surgery for trigger thumb, too. 🤷🏻♀️
I think there definitely can be an inherited tendency to have trigger finger/thumb. My father had trigger thumb, my older brother and sister have it and I woke up with it a few weeks ago. I am doing the exercises recommended in this video and hope that they will work ❤
My hands feel like I hold them clenched in my sleep. It progressed into my middle and ring finger in both hands not being able to make a painless fist. Then the catch when I tried to bend fingers.
Thank you so very , very much . I tried the cross...massage and it WORKS for my fingers. Thank you a million times and more. Peace and Perfect-Health to you and yours.
I'm so happy to watch this video for trying to reverse this trigger finger. I live alone so I have to work on this myself between therapy every week.
THANKS GUYS 💞
Blessings To The Both Of You 🙌🏾
yall always know what needs to be fixed...
I've seen that Graston or IASTM techniques have been effective at treating trigger fingers. Along with mobilization of associated joints.
Thank you; I am definitely filing this video for reference. About 25 years ago I had trigger thumb in both thumbs at the same time, a rarity which the doctor said she had never seen before and I said you can’t say that anymore, and had surgery. All OK with the thumbs BUT After that I had trigger finger in both hands middle & ringer fingers. I had cortisone/novocaine injections in each finger. The specialist said a maximum of 3 injections per finger, after that surgery. So far so good - minor surgery avoided. Thank you again.
I just got this in both thumbs at same time. It’s awful!
This has been a long time problem for me, particularly my right middle finger. Thanks guys.
I could barely flex my pinky finger before watching this. Your pressure and massage treatment is working for me. Thank you! By the end of watching this, I can flex my finger more now but it's still a bit poppy and clicky but I'll continue massaging it for a while with the hope it goes away for good.
I have the same problem with my pinky finger. I was just diagnosed with Trigger Finger. The doc wanted to give me a cortisone shot, but I have glaucoma. The steroids in the shot would raise my eye pressure. My finger becomes painful to move (with popping) anytime I'm sedentary (sleeping or too much sitting). Once I'm out of bed or busy doing tasks I don't have any problems. I have been doing the massaging and flexing in the mornings and it has helped. I really don't want a shot and the doc stated if I couldn't get the shot, I would be a candidate for surgery. I don't want that either. Good luck.
I had never heard of this. I watched it hoping that it might have something to do with the problem I've had with my right thumb for about 20 years. But it doesn't seem to be related. I've never had an official diagnosis, but I think I might have focal dystonia in the base of my thumb, caused by a repetitive use injury. The pain and inflammation went away after months of accupuncture treatments, but I never fully regained control over the motion. Fortunately it doesn't keep me from typing so I can use the computer for my work. And most of the time it doesn't bother me during the day. But I don't have much control over the movement of that thumb, especially fine motor control like trying to pick up a small object between my thumb and first finger. When it bothers me the most is when I'm trying to go to sleep at night and the thumb curls in and won't let me completely relax my hand. How about doing a video on ways that I could improve the muscle tone in the base of my thumb?
Perfect timing, I'm currently dealing with a case of trigger finger.
Me too.. I tried a makeshift splint, and slept with it. I woke up i so much pain. It was so stiff. It’s ring finger on dominant hand 21 yrs of repetition on job. Thanks for the vide guys
Good luck to you my friend
Even I dont know. I am also suffering from same. All the time they publish the video and for any injury I am suffering from.
I just came across your video and I have been experiencing trigger finger for a couple years now and my doctor said it was arthritis but did not really give me any remedy for it. I just tried massaging it for 30 seconds just as you suggested and I could already fold and make a fist with my finger. I will keep doing this and thank you for this informative video!
I have right-hand middle finger trigger finger. Thank you!
Can you do one for dupuytrens contracture? I used to work for a surgeon and they said it’s only correctable by surgery. I don’t believe it and would like to know your opinions!
I had it badly, the most important thing at first is to REST, if I had listened to the docs I'd have worse issues. today was the first time playing my guitar in a while, have faith and rest and give yourself proper nutrition and then worry about the stretching and rehab
Yes, I'm surprised they didn't mention splinting AT FIRST.
Recently I have been having this issue on both hands and had no idea what it was. Thank you for all the great information!
I love you guys and learned alot about my shin splints from you guys!
I've got a trigger finger and I came across your video..very helpful❤ thank you
You guys are miracle workers!!! OMG the massage worked instantly for me. Thank you guys!
Thanks!
About five to seven years ago I started getting trigger thumb in my left thumb. I realized I had a death grip on my iPhone 6+ (that first really big iPhone model) and a lot of the phone’s weight rested on my left thumb. I broke the death grip habit, and the trigger thumb went away. Yay!
Fast forward five or so years, and I developed trigger finger in my left ring finger. I can’t determine a cause for it (I use a PopSocket, and I hold the PopSocket between my first and second fingers; the third finger isn’t bearing weight). I’ve been ignoring/babying it, but it’s getting locked more frequently. It’s also reached the point where I can’t force it straight without using my right hand. It was locked when I decided to look up videos about it.
I massaged that pulley and the nodule for about a minute or two.
Not gonna lie, after about 10 seconds I stopped and cried out in pain. But it subsided and I started again. I was shocked when, without even consciously trying to straighten my finger, it popped up. Yay!
I’m on so many meds at this point, I’d like to avoid taking NSAIDs on the daily. I’m definitely going to keep massaging the nodule and pulley as well as stretching the fingers.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Happy we could help!
Thanks for the video!
I have minor trigger finger on the middle finger in that it sticks and clicks then frees up just the once at various times in the day, so the video helps a lot, thanks again.. I'm not doing too bad at 67 and trying to keep running with mild knee arthritis and do your stretches for knees and ankle. 👍
After receiving injections and acupuncture to treat recurring incidents in different fingers, I figured out the underlying reason and realized that I was sleeping with my head resting on the clenched fist of the affected arm and this was causing the inflammation.
Thank you! My thumb has that but I had no idea what it was! I'll definitely be trying your suggestions!
Such great, clear explanations!! Thank you
Do you read my mind?
Thanks for posting- VERY helpful!!!
Wow guys! Thanks! My pinky finger started clicking just a couple days ago, and you helped me find relief before the end of this video. 👍🏻 Excellent work, gentlemen! 🎉🥳🎉
My wife has a trigger finger ever since she got bit by a neighbor’s donkey. It damaged the joint of her ring finger. Wearing a bandaid 🩹 around the joint helps a lot.
Donkey finger?
I had trigger thumb last year, and with your UA-cam videos, and another hand therapist, I did everything to cure it. Well I couldn’t take the pain and it just wouldn’t go away, so into the doctor I went and got a shot of steroid. It was extremely painful for a few long seconds, but it worked! That was about six months ago and I’ll be darned it’s back!😢 So I’m gonna keep trying to do what you recommend and hopefully it works! I also have plantar fasciitis and have done all the exercises and ice etc., you and my foot doctor recommend. I had custom orthotics, a couple steroid shots in my heel ( they are quite painful 😣), and it seems to go away and recently it had reared its ugly head and I’m so frustrated with it! I’m a healthy person, walk at least four days a week, vegetarian, not on any medication, take a few supplements/vitamins. I just hope I don’t need another shot - I truly don’t want to have any more steroids than necessary. Okay I’ve rambled on enough! LOL - Thanks for all your videos- they truly are helpful and I recommend your channel to everyone.
I really appreciate you guys! I tell everyone about you when the time is right
Thank you. I will do whatever it takes to avoid surgery.
The new video on trigger finger is very helpful, you should link it here!
Can you guys do a video on golfers elbow?? It would be much appreciated
Just spray lidocaine around the finger that's being affected down the back of the hand and around your wrist rub it your trigger finger or trigger thumb will dull and you will be able to use your hand it takes about 15 minutes
I play darts, and my thumb has become a real issue over the last few years. I went to a physio and they said it was an overuse injury. I simply cannot use it as freely as I useto, I also play guitar and find the more I do of either, it makes it worse which completely limits practice in both.
9:53 What worked for Brad himself: cross-friction massage
I had that problem with my thumb I put turpentine on my thumb twice a day for about 3-4 days and the problem went away 😁
What does turpentine do?
How the heck does turps help lol
😳 yikes- sounds toxic!
That's good race horse rub, turpentine.
My middle finger hurts and clicks when I bend it but I also hear the clicking in my wrist. It hurts so much in the morning 🥺😭😭
I used my knowledge as a massage therapist on my finger: massaged the all the fingers to my forearm & kinesiotaped my finger. It went away quickly.
Where can you get the tape to wrap up the thumb?
I have been dealing with this for a while. First my right hand, then my left hand. Right now I have trigger thumb and trigger finger on both my ring finger and my pinkie. Thank you for this video!
Do you know the underlying cause? May it be diet related? I ask because my my hand became slightly swollen when my first finger developed into a trigger finger. Now, 6 months later the thumb and first finger on the other hand are triggering, plus my right shoulder and hip joints are becoming uncomfortable. It's as though a pencil point is being pushed into them.
Thank you for the advice on how to work the "bump" on my hand
Thank you.Well done! Cross fiber friction does break up the nodule
Making that pulley model was very cool, we trigger-fingered people absolutely felt it! When I woke up yesterday I noticed my finger locked. It was the first time I get this condition which was not pleasant at all (no pain at least), so I made a DIY cast with a rolled piece of paper tissue taped behind my finger across all its length. I slept with it because I feared the locking would appear again, and I liked that it restricts movement without making it impossible. I hope this will help get better sooner! 🤞🤞🤞
Thank you for sharing this information. I am a hairstylist, and I have a trigger thumb and a trigger fore finger. I started taping it and using ice but wonder if it is getting weak. I have changed the way I tape it now and will do the stretches and pray it goes away. Thanks again!
Did it work?
Ok, cold pack just went on...crushed ice in a zip lock. Ive been forcing mine to move, obviously made it far worse. Good to know, Thank you
This worked for me! I have watched many UA-cam videos and done the stretching and exercising. None of this helped to any degree. I tried the kinesio tape and immediately my joint (middle finger) stopped catching. I still get occasional catching but minimal. I'm keeping cut pieces of tape handy to replace as needed. Hopefully this will give the joint a chance to heal. Thanks for the great tip. (Male - 75 years old).
Thanks. I’m dealing with this right now in my ring finger. Will do these and see. I had a cortisone shot but don’t want to use medication anymore.
Thanks. I had the tendon release surgery on my left thumb many years ago. Now my right thumb is starting to act up. I'm going to try these therapies, and hopefully avoid surgery.
Thank you Bob and Brad, appreciate so much for your information given, I noticed I had trigger finger on my left hand middle finger recently, I tried few times by rubbing and I noticed it work on my middle, I will continue doing it. Thanks a lot, appreciate much
I've had trigger thumb for about a month now and have read taking a Vitamin B6 P5P daily can make a big difference, has anyone used this for trigger finger?
if this works i will be so happy i need to miss a very important event because its on my treatement if it actually works im subbing
Great pulley visual! Thank you
Whaaaa? Just got a steroid shot in the thumb last Friday. How do you produce vids on my timeline? Ha ha. Was told it wasn't trigger though. Just arthritis. I'm 61, so okay, I accept it. However the shot was the most painful thing! Now it's sore, and feels like a rubber band snapping. Hope it recovers. No PT prescribed by surgeon. I'm Ambi now. Haha. Thanks guys!
i luv them.. i have back issue and trigger thumb... all of there methods are super and work!
My Brother had this for a really long time, we all thought because he was a Golfer. My index finger on right hand has been triggered since 2019...it's bent at the knuckle;
have no idea how I did it...
You two are a hoot. Thank you.
Thanks. I’m suffering with this suddenly.
Needed this!!! Thank you both!
Thank you both for this video. It is helping already although It may not be a trigger thumb as I was told. I woke up one morning after months of severe illness with my thumb flat against my palm. The problem is at the 3rd joint down by the wrist & I have great trouble extending the thumb & opening my palm.
If my thumb can’t bend at the mid joint, do we do the same exercises? Would that even be a trigger thumb if its at the mid joint rather than the base of the thumb?
I went to doctor yesterday told them my hip and back hurts woke up this morning my ring finger is stuck🤷🏽♀️so here I am.. Last time my arm was stuck I think it's a nerve in my neck or back
Love the illustration.