My trigger thumb was making my life a misery for 18 months. I'm a paramedic so it was affecting me at work too. Your advice on getting an oval 8 splint and stretching has literally changed my life!! I'm pain free and have full motion back. Thank you
Ah! That's amazing!! I never used them before and then just in the past 2 years I had this like, epiphany and started using them with all my trigger finger patients and IT WORKS SO WELL! It's the easiest little trick. I'm so glad it's working for you - best of luck!!
Kelly, thank you for these exercises. I've had trigger thumb for a couple weeks now and my doctor was no help at all. She took an xray and brushed it off as arthritis. She said to wear a splint and take ibuprofen, not telling me that i needed to remove the splint periodically. As a result, over the past week wearing a splint 24/7, im in much more pain. After watching your video, i have hope that ill be on the right track now. Thank you!
My thumb started out triggering for about a week and then today I could not move it at all. I did your tips, massage and iced a couple of times today. I can move it now! It is still triggering but it isn't STUCK. I'm so happy! I'll keep doing this daily along with wearing the splint until I'm better!!
I am so excited to have found your page!!! I am a 53 year old female. I noticed a small ‘knot’ on my thumb knuckle, just below the nail. It has gotten a little bigger. Just a few days ago, the joint began popping when I bent it. Everyone I have watched, only talks about the thumb joint closer to the palm. Thank you so much for sharing these videos!! I was an EMT for about 10 years. Now, I am a security guard at a Childrens Specialty Clinic. I use my hands a lot. The stretches are definitely going to come in handy, pun intended!!
You are a phenomenal woman who offers her time on the internet to helps thousands. I think your techniques will work. You are the first to explain proper treatment so clearly. So grateful to you.
I had trigger thumb. I did a search and found your video. I followed what you said almost to the letter. It took about eight weeks but I no longer have that trigger thumb. Thank you so much for making this video. It was clear and easy to understand.
I made my splint out of duct tape--wrap the thumb with the sticky side out and then wrap it again with the sticky side down. It's a great splint because it gives some mobility but prevents snapping. My problem started a few weeks ago and is improving rapidly.
I'm in the UK and developed trigger thumb about 5 weeks ago. I'm 74 and also have general osteoarthritis. When my right thumb started clicking I just thought it would go away after a couple of days but of course it didn't. I Googled the symptoms and for the first time I found a name for the condition. Due to lockdown restrictions here we are not able to see our GP unless, after triage on the phone, we are told to go to our surgery. So we can only book telephone appointments. My GP told me to buy some Ibuprofen gel and explained an exercise which is basically the one you call cross friction massage. He also said that if it was no better in 6-8 weeks they will give me a cortisone injection. He didn't give me anything like the detail you give in this video so thank you. I've only been doing the exercises for 2 days so it's early days. I've managed to buy a thumb splint from a pharmacy today so that will help me in keeping my thumb straight. You've said not to wear them 24/7 but is it ok to wear them while I'm asleep? The one I've got isn't the oval 8 splint, it's made of a soft pliable metal with 4 'prongs' that are lined with strips of foam so you place it over your thumb and gently press the prongs to the shape of 6our thumb. I often wake up with one or both thumbs in an unnaturally straight position and they are very painful especially if I have forgotten the problem and throw back my duvet to get out of bed! The other question I have is I find it very difficult to bend my thumb at the first joint without it clicking so I have taken your advice and stopped doing that part of the exercise; however, I can bend my thumb at the next joint without it clicking. So should I carry on with this second half of the exercise? Sorry for the long post but your video has been much more help to me than my doctor.
Good to wear when you sleep! Just make sure you remove some during the day to stretch. Yes! Avoid the first exercises if it causes clicking. Thank you (: I hope it helps!
Kelly, Thank you for sharing your knowledge on Trigger Thumbs. I am currently experiencing triggering in both my thumbs- and am so grateful I found your page, thanks again for your help!!🙌🌺
Oh my gosh thank you. I've developed this clicking thumb about 5 weeks ago. Use to be just when I woke up..then all the time. I started to splint it so it would not move. Now I have sound advise to heal my clicker. Thank you!
This is so helpful. My trigger thumb (s) have been interfering with my work and I desperately just needed something I could do throughout the day. I’ve already started all of the things suggested in this video. Thank you so much!!!
@@ForwardTherapy Thank you soo much ♡, i got it after i got an injection on my right hand and my hand was covered with a tight cloth for like 1 to 3 days, thats how it ended up getting it , im really used to it but i hope it goes back to normal , i tried to unbend my thumb but it becomes straight and cant move backwards like a normal finger, and it makes a sound when i bend it back, but it works like a normal thumb, just bent, i was hoping it would become normal in a few days but i still have it (it could be the reason why i remember always writing slower than my classmates) and....☆Thank you sooooo much for this video!!!☆
The dull and persistent pains ouch. After Watching your video, I realise that my trigger thumb will soon be a thing of the past. WI keep you updated Thanks so far, 🙏.
I've just found your exercises and I'm looking forward to doing them daily. I've had injections on both thumbs and they typically last about a year but then the pain and clicking returns. I have just ordered the oval-8 splints. I'm hoping the combination of your exercises and the splints help the pain and motion! You have a very soft and calming voice, and you explain things/show them very well. Thank you so much.
Thank you so much for the exercises and all the information. My trigger finger started last January and until now I’m suffering from pain . Now I know to take care of it.May God bless you
2 mths ago i got a trigger on my thumb, the orthopaedic dictor gsve an injection abd it was good. However, i liftrd a kadder for xnas sbd it went right triggrting. Iooked at yr video this morning abd did sll what u said and si far it feels good.
Thank you much for this! I felt disheartened yesterday because I waited 4 weeks for my doctors appointment, only for him to touch my thumb and tell me that he will make a referral which he warned would take weeks/months to get an appointment. I have been instinctively stretching and massaging, so you have shown me that I’ve been on the right track! Thank you for giving me some hope of healing and getting some sleep again.
All I can say is WOW, it REALLY WORKS!!! I've been suffering with trigger thumb for the past couple of months. I’ve followed all of your recommendations (except for the splint - I simply haven’t bought one yet), and after TWO days, I’ve noticed a significant improvement. Thank you so very much for your video! One question……. Should I do the stretches EVERY day, or would it be better to periodically stop the exercises to give my thump time to “heal” from all of the stretching? Thanks again for all of your phenomenal help!
Thank you, your instructions on how to do the exercises are really clear and helpful. I've been cycling most of my life and I think my trigger thumb has been caused by clicking through the gear changes. I'm a Podiatry student and so need to get this condition sorted for using the clippers and making orthotics! Hopefully your advice will help.
Your exercises helped me immensely! I still do them every day while watching TV. I went to an ortho and the first thing they wanted to do was surgery--cutting the sheath to make it bigger. I said NOPE. I opted for a cortisone shot in each thumb (not at the same time). The right thumb trigger returned and I went to Dr. Google and found your page. In very little time (and with the Oval 8) the trigger released and no longer catches. Thank you so much!!!!!
I just found your video. My thumb has been locked for 3 months & I didn’t know what to do. I’m going to this out. Thank you so much for posting this♥️♥️♥️
Thanks so much for all your videos! You have restored my faith in the possibility of me fixing my thumb without surgery. I believe I am in early stages of trigger thumb. It started in early August but it took me quite some time to figure out what it was, to research products /tools to buy and what to do. My swelling was severe while I was unintentionally pushing myself before I obtained the proper info. I will give it another 6- 8 weeks doing all items you suggested. I saw a hand specialist who was super condescending, discouraging and rude. He gave me a cortisone shot, told me I would need surgery for sure, discouraged any physical therapy and a bunch of other horrible advice. THANKS SOOOO MUCH!
I literally just had this develop in one thumb. Thank yiu for the exercises. Ive been trying some but knuckle was popping. I wasn't doing it the right way! Now i will and will definitely do the ither things you showed us
This is the only video I have seen that actually helped me! After following along, my thumb could actually move more, where before it was straight and just wouldn't bend at all. I didn't do the ice yet though as i don't have any. I can actually sign my name again. You are a doll! Thank you so very much. 💕
So helpful. Unfortunately, I did exactly what you said we should not do! I went from a mild , painless trigger to excruciating pain because I was trying to show my doctor what was going on 😢. So now I’m benefiting from your help. Thank you for presenting so much detail…including the uncomfortable process of massage with the ice.
Thank you for reaching out with such detailed help, Kelly. There'll be some guitar playing starting up again in our house soon, because of following your tips!
kudo's to Fwd-Therapy for sharing and pointing out what not to do as well... it helped immensely! i was inadvertently making things worse by forcing my poor'lil thumb to work when it would get stuck.
Thank you for this it helped more than my video visit with my MD and a video visit with a hand surgeon. I learned a LOT from you and already feel better. I will give it a couple weeks before I accept the ONLY two suggestions from the hand specialist which are injections and surgery. I had been wearing a big brace and NO movement for 3 weeks -- THAN YOU!!! You can get the oval 8 in Amazon by the way
THANK YOU! I can't believe how much this has been bothering me for weeks. I just kept thinking it would improve with the wrist brace I had and ibuprofen-- obviously not since this is a thumb joint problem! I just ordered the splint and will do the exercises. You are a blessing.
No, mine hasn't healed. I saw a hand orthopedic 2 weeks ago and received a steroid shot in the 2nd joint. I have another appointment in a week. The first joint only can bend slightly. Triggering can still happen occasionally but generally I've learned to not move it to trigger.
If all the reviews are any indication, your advice is right on. My case is not particularly severe but very uncomfortable so I look forward to some relief in a week or so. Thank you for you help.
Excellent video! The exercises work and helped me get my thumb action back in less than 3 weeks. My right thumb was literally swollen into an "open" position and wouldn't bend without extreme pain. A real pain since I'm right-handed. I had tried exercises from another video that didn't work. Thank you for helping so many people with this issue!
I have been suffering with a trigger thumb for a couple of weeks now. My chiropractor did an adjustment on it twice this week and it helped, but still sore. Not going to be able to get back to him for a couple of weeks and knew I couldn't manage that. I decided to Google thumb exercises and found your TH-cam video. Have gone through the exercises 2 times and already feeling relief - I actually got relief after first time. THANK YOU!
Thank you, my thumb has been causing me discomfort. The thumb exercise felt really good. My thumb can move back and forth without catching with this exercise. Feels good. I will pick up a thumb splint tomorrow.
Thank you for the helpful demonstration. I was in so much pain. After seeing your video, I did the exercises and wrapped my thumb the correct way. My thumb felt so much better. It was so hard not being able to do anything. I could not get an Ortho appt for a month plus I am wary of getting a steroid shot and having another reaction to steroids. many thanks
I just watched your entire video and may have heard aprx a dozen words... Due to your beauty.... Seriously, there should be a disclaimer to make viewers aware that they will need to watch your videos twice once for being lost in your beauty and once for their trigger finger.... Thx..sincerly
I have severe osteoarthritis in my hands and wrists, and have “swollen”knuckles. I’ve had clicking in a few fingers but no trigger finger until my thumb recently started doing the trigger thing! I know it was from overdoing it with yard work. I’m taking your advice for exercise, but may end up with a hand doctor.
Thank you for this video, showing all of the stretches. I have been working on this for a couple of weeks now since a friend showed me a couple of these exercises but it helps to see them done. I have had to very painful shots and am trying to avoid surgery!
Thank you for your tips. However I heard that instead of ice you should warm the thumb and massage it in circular patterns. I heard that you should soak it in hot water for about 15 minutes and then massage it with oil or lotion. So what is better to do?
I really have to try your sticking it may work because the surgeries said it may help 50% change but not completely cure I felt so bad when I heard this ..why surgery won't cure this painful fingers..thank you so much.
I just ordered my figure eight splint. I cant wait to receive it and start using it. I woke up one morning about 2 weeks ago and noticed that my thumb was locking up and hurt when I tried to bend it. You can feel a popping in the middle joint and it is painful to move it. I do massage my thumb like you showed and my thumb will loosen up during the day. Hopefully I can get rid of this trigger thumb, it is annoying to say the least. Thank you for the video!!!
Two cortisone shots later, and almost 8 months suffering thinking surgery is next, I found your video. The splinting is really helping and I’ve been doing the massages and stretches for about a week. My thumb feels the best it has in months. Thank you! Will continue as I’m really feeling results!
Thank you so much for this excellent video. You explained it all so well and the pace was perfect for learning what to do. I'm so thankful for your help.
OMG. Thank you! I've been suffering for months with trigger thumb on my left hand. It was sore all the time and really, really painful when it snapped. I watched this video and started this protocol. I've only iced it a few times, but the last time I did it, it felt so much better. I got a thumb splint that is kind of like a glove and I wear that when I'm going to be using my hand and want to make sure I don't let it snap. It has hurt for so long I've gotten used to favoring it so I was hardly using it except I had gotten some bad advice and was actually moving it too much and letting it snap. I'm hoping I only have another week before it is back to normal. Thank goodness!!!
@DC If you don’t mind sharing ... What kind of glove? How did you find it? Im goin through the same. Severe pain and snapping ‘out of joint’ constantly. It’s taking over my life 😢
I had been overusing my thumb holding the phone in a firm grip above my face while laying on my back, hence the tip of my thumb had been in a locked position for hours until one morning I woke up with stiffness and what turned out to be a “funny” trigger finger. It gets really stiff only in the mornings, but it feel uncomfortable to use the thumb during the day as well (using knife or holding something in a firm grip, that little nodule gets a little painful). Where I live there are no hand doctors, so thank you so much for sharing this knowledge. It is very much appreciated! I’ve done some research and a couple of respected medical websites also recommend stretching, but they never give any examples of exercises. I have one questions if you don’t mind answering: given that my finger doesn’t get locked during the day, do you think I should use that thingy to immobilize the tip? P.S. To anyone who happens to read this: learn from my mistakes and don’t use your phone the way I did. Stay strong and healthy!
Thank you so much for your videos! I have had painful fingers and thumb on my left hand for 3 1/2 years now and each of the practitioners I’ve seen for it tell me that it’s trigger finger but they aren’t locking. I have no locking at all but swelling, pain, loss of motion, and tender nodules. One says it could be the start of dupuytren's contracture but again no pulling. The top hand surgeon in my area says no surgery since there is also some osteoarthritis so surgery wouldn’t help. This started at 44 years old. I’m now 47. I just can’t imagine with this much pain the only option is steroid shots. That’s the only thing that has worked so far but the pain returns in 2 months. No one has recommended physical therapy either. And all the autoimmune testing including RA comes back negative. The pain is in my ring finger, pinky finger, and thumb of my left hand and a different pain in the thumb joint of my right hand which I am resigned to that being thumb arthritis. It’s the left hand that no one is providing any long term solution. It’s like I’m not being listened to or believed. The inflammation is visible. Anyway, do you have a recommendation? Would you expect your trigger finger exercises for my fingers and then work if they don’t actually lock? Is that even possible to have trigger finger in 3 fingers on one hand for 3 1/2 years and they’ve never locked? I would really appreciate your feedback. Thank you!!!
It is possible to have trigger finger that isn’t locking, but unusual that it would never have locked. Sounds like a tough situation! I’d ask your doctor for a hand therapy visit to go over a home program and talk about pain management and activity modification strategies!
This video has been really helpful at reducing pain. My question is what causes trigger thumb. I don’t do any repetitive jobs and I don’t use my cell much to type. Could some exercises like planks cause it? It did up my plank time right before symptoms appeared. I don’t know what, if anything, could have caused this. I am a 54 year old woman without diabetes/arthritis.
Trigger thumb can be caused by repetitive pinching, gripping, phone scrolling, carrying objects with the thumb, etc. any repetitive use can cause it to occur! Other things like systemic inflammatory conditions, diabetes, can also contribute.
I would take another look at your activities, more than likely you are using the thumb more than you think! Even small things like holding something (dishes, water bottle, phone, etc) for long enough can trigger it
Hopeful this exercise suggestions will help me 🙏🏽 Thank you !! God Bless you You are so naturally beautiful , it’s not often individuals make videos with their natural beauty without a lot of makeup, nail polish etc
You are a life saver!! I actually got the Oval 8 when you recommended it in one of your previous videos. I'm glad you posted this because I have been wearing it pretty much 24/7 for weeks...ding ding ding SHAME SHAME SHAME. Despite my error it has helped immensely. I'm looking forward to using your techniques to further my progress.
Oh I’m so glad!!! That isn’t on you, I should’ve mentioned earlier!! I just don’t want anyone to develop stiffness on top of the trigger thumb. I’m so glad it’s been helping you!!!
Wow I just did the exercises that you showed my painful thumb is better!! I've been experiencing locking and painful feeling of my left thumb recently. Thank you so much for sharing your expertise! God bless you more!
Thank u so much for showing us how to do the massage correctly,but mine still hurts alot,anyway i will continue doing it until such time this struggle of mine with trigger thumbs end up...
This video is super helpful. Thanks. I did all the stretches with you while watching this video and will make sure to do them on a regular basis. Will post my results later.
I developed a trigger thumb when I started knitting during the pandemic. I guess my hands have not been used to doing this. Will try these exercises. Thank you for sharing ☺👍
Thank you for your videos. I'm experiencing trigger finger in my middle finger of right hand and trigger thumb in my left. After seeing both your videos, and practicing the exercises, I'm already feeling better in three days. I don't have a source to get the splint that you have recommended, however the exercises are helpful especially with the streched arm which I do multiple times in a day. Thank you
For the first passive stretch on the tip joint I have success isolating that joint by stretching my thumb up the side of my phone with the joint slightly wrapping the top corner of it. I can wiggle my thumb tip as much as I want without moving any other part of my thumb. Not exactly passive though but it feels right.
Question: Can a neck injury bring this on over time? Or is it caused by medication that could cause inflammation? I am trying to see what has brought this on since I have never had this problem in my life. If I have to make changes then I am trying to narrow down what is causing this condition. Unfortunately we all have the Adam syndrome and I am pushing 60 trips around the local star but this is just so odd to have my thumb locking up.
Mmmm not that I know of because of a neck injury. But medication, definitely! Also more common with inflammatory conditions like diabetes, gout, arthritis, etc…
Been suffer this condition in both thumbs for a few months now. Your video is helping. One question I have. Should I tape my thumbs at night? If I do they are painful in the morning and if I don’t they are also painful in the morning. I live in Australia and can’t get those very neat thumb braces anywhere.
There are a few reasons that can happen! Systemic factors like diabetes, thyroid conditions, etc can make a person more likely to develop overuse injuries. But usually the activities we do that are repetitive or overuse cause the triggering
I had trigger in both hands and after 3 shots in each hand a nurse suggested I try adding fish oil to my diet and I have not had a problem since I ve also believe that gringer as in Gringer ale is a good anti inflammatory, Reeds is a good brand to try.
I’ve found that CBD salve on the painful thumb bump makes the cross massaging easier and helps with discomfort too! Does this type of massage get the bump to go away eventually? Thanks for the ice masssge tip too!!
LOL, “give this video a thumbs up!” One question: I already wear wrist braces at night because my hands tend to go numb. They’re the kind where you stick your thumb through a separate hole, but I find it works better for my numbness to just not use the thumb hole and brace my whole hand with thumb and fingers together. Would it be better for the trigger thumb to use the thumb hole? Also, is it okay to wear the tape at night? This was VERY helpful. After doing the exercises, I’m already feeling some relief!Thank you so much!
often, the thumb spica type splints won't block the very tip joint of the thumb (the IP joint), which is usually the joint you want to block with trigger thumb.
I don't know if you check comments still, but just in case- if your thumb is locked straight and it hurts really bad to bend it, should you bend it with your other hand or wait for it to loosen on its own? I made the mistake of putting a thumb stabalizer on it for a few days because it helped with the pain and now it won't bend. Thank you so much for the video even if you don't respond! ❤
Excellent video. Super helpful information and advice. I am (healthy 68 yr old) catching mine in the early stage: no pain, just resistance then the catch. Question: did Pickleball (been playing 5 months) cause this? Does gripping the paddle and playing for one hour make it worse? I really appreciate your answer. I can’t get in to see a Physical Therapist for two weeks. Got my Oval 8 and will follow your advice. Thanks so much.
Thank you so very much for the generous knowledge you share. I have trigger thumb. I am truly grateful for your excellent video. I tried to buy the Oval 8 splint through the link above that you provided, but the link is not working.
Thank you for being so caring and compassionate to post these videos. Im a firefighter and my thumb is locking constantly. Im in horrible pain and trying stretching. Do you think stretching and splinting is capable of repair or should i consider cortisone injections.
Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that! Trigger thumbs can be so tricky. It's definitely possible (I can't say exactly in your case because every person is different, and there are several phases of trigger thumb severity which can correspond to different types of treatment strategies). It's worth a try to do the stretching and splinting, but may be worth a visit to your doctor to see what they recommend (I'd recommend seeing a hand specialist rather than a PCP).
![BOWKYLION - วิงวอน (ex-change) [Official MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/cLdnZWDaO-w/mqdefault.jpg)
My trigger thumb was making my life a misery for 18 months. I'm a paramedic so it was affecting me at work too. Your advice on getting an oval 8 splint and stretching has literally changed my life!! I'm pain free and have full motion back. Thank you
Ah! That's amazing!! I never used them before and then just in the past 2 years I had this like, epiphany and started using them with all my trigger finger patients and IT WORKS SO WELL! It's the easiest little trick. I'm so glad it's working for you - best of luck!!
@@ForwardTherapy Can i get the link to purchase 8 ovalSplint
You can find them on Amazon!
My trigger thumb just started. It's very painful at the base of the thumb. Yours last 18-months! Did you ever get a cortisone injection?
@@rolandf7419 I did on my middle finger and thumb. It worked on my thumb only.
I have gotten more from her video than I did from going to the orthopedic doctor and therapy from the hospital. Thank you for doing this for us.
agreed!
This is the best video that I’ve watched about trigger thumb. Others were a bit vague.
Kelly, thank you for these exercises. I've had trigger thumb for a couple weeks now and my doctor was no help at all. She took an xray and brushed it off as arthritis. She said to wear a splint and take ibuprofen, not telling me that i needed to remove the splint periodically. As a result, over the past week wearing a splint 24/7, im in much more pain. After watching your video, i have hope that ill be on the right track now. Thank you!
Sorry it’s more painful!!! I hope the exercises will help.
My thumb started out triggering for about a week and then today I could not move it at all. I did your tips, massage and iced a couple of times today. I can move it now! It is still triggering but it isn't STUCK. I'm so happy! I'll keep doing this daily along with wearing the splint until I'm better!!
Ah, amazing!! Keep it up and hopefully it gets better with your diligent effort!
I am so excited to have found your page!!! I am a 53 year old female. I noticed a small ‘knot’ on my thumb knuckle, just below the nail. It has gotten a little bigger. Just a few days ago, the joint began popping when I bent it. Everyone I have watched, only talks about the thumb joint closer to the palm. Thank you so much for sharing these videos!! I was an EMT for about 10 years. Now, I am a security guard at a Childrens Specialty Clinic. I use my hands a lot. The stretches are definitely going to come in handy, pun intended!!
omg thank you so much I've been playing guitar for 7 years and all the sudden my left thumb was stuck and i was so nervous but i feel a lot better
You are a phenomenal woman who offers her time on the internet to helps thousands. I think your techniques will work. You are the first to explain proper treatment so clearly. So grateful to you.
You just warmed my heart! Thank you!
SAME!! 🙌🏼 *I agree
Most helpful information I’ve seen!
@@Teshelle18 thank you!!
@@Teshelle18 thank you very much for you help♥️
- I agree.
I had trigger thumb. I did a search and found your video. I followed what you said almost to the letter. It took about eight weeks but I no longer have that trigger thumb. Thank you so much for making this video. It was clear and easy to understand.
Plse explain in Hindi
I made my splint out of duct tape--wrap the thumb with the sticky side out and then wrap it again with the sticky side down. It's a great splint because it gives some mobility but prevents snapping. My problem started a few weeks ago and is improving rapidly.
I'm in the UK and developed trigger thumb about 5 weeks ago. I'm 74 and also have general osteoarthritis. When my right thumb started clicking I just thought it would go away after a couple of days but of course it didn't. I Googled the symptoms and for the first time I found a name for the condition. Due to lockdown restrictions here we are not able to see our GP unless, after triage on the phone, we are told to go to our surgery. So we can only book telephone appointments. My GP told me to buy some Ibuprofen gel and explained an exercise which is basically the one you call cross friction massage. He also said that if it was no better in 6-8 weeks they will give me a cortisone injection. He didn't give me anything like the detail you give in this video so thank you. I've only been doing the exercises for 2 days so it's early days. I've managed to buy a thumb splint from a pharmacy today so that will help me in keeping my thumb straight. You've said not to wear them 24/7 but is it ok to wear them while I'm asleep? The one I've got isn't the oval 8 splint, it's made of a soft pliable metal with 4 'prongs' that are lined with strips of foam so you place it over your thumb and gently press the prongs to the shape of 6our thumb. I often wake up with one or both thumbs in an unnaturally straight position and they are very painful especially if I have forgotten the problem and throw back my duvet to get out of bed! The other question I have is I find it very difficult to bend my thumb at the first joint without it clicking so I have taken your advice and stopped doing that part of the exercise; however, I can bend my thumb at the next joint without it clicking. So should I carry on with this second half of the exercise? Sorry for the long post but your video has been much more help to me than my doctor.
Good to wear when you sleep! Just make sure you remove some during the day to stretch. Yes! Avoid the first exercises if it causes clicking. Thank you (: I hope it helps!
actually showing us what to do is very helpful. thank you
Best “how to” video on this subject that I’ve seen! Thank you!!
Thank you 🥰
Kelly, Thank you for sharing your knowledge on Trigger Thumbs. I am currently experiencing triggering in both my thumbs- and am so grateful I found your page, thanks again for your help!!🙌🌺
Oh my gosh thank you. I've developed this clicking thumb about 5 weeks ago. Use to be just when I woke up..then all the time. I started to splint it so it would not move. Now I have sound advise to heal my clicker. Thank you!
Did it work?
This is so helpful. My trigger thumb (s) have been interfering with my work and I desperately just needed something I could do throughout the day. I’ve already started all of the things suggested in this video. Thank you so much!!!
Thank you soo much for this vid!!!! I just figured out what i had today🎉🎉🎉🎉 i have had it since i was around 5-7,and im now 13 , i hope these work !!!
You may have a congenital trigger thumb - would be worth going to your doctor to see! Sometimes those are managed differently. But can't hurt to try!
@@ForwardTherapy Thank you soo much ♡, i got it after i got an injection on my right hand and my hand was covered with a tight cloth for like 1 to 3 days, thats how it ended up getting it , im really used to it but i hope it goes back to normal , i tried to unbend my thumb but it becomes straight and cant move backwards like a normal finger, and it makes a sound when i bend it back, but it works like a normal thumb, just bent, i was hoping it would become normal in a few days but i still have it (it could be the reason why i remember always writing slower than my classmates) and....☆Thank you sooooo much for this video!!!☆
The dull and persistent pains ouch. After Watching your video, I realise that my trigger thumb will soon be a thing of the past. WI keep you updated
Thanks so far, 🙏.
Hope it gets better soon!
So, did it work or not?
I've just found your exercises and I'm looking forward to doing them daily. I've had injections on both thumbs and they typically last about a year but then the pain and clicking returns. I have just ordered the oval-8 splints. I'm hoping the combination of your exercises and the splints help the pain and motion! You have a very soft and calming voice, and you explain things/show them very well. Thank you so much.
hope it gets better soon!
Thank you so much for the exercises and all the information. My trigger finger started last January and until now I’m suffering from pain . Now I know to take care of it.May God bless you
2 mths ago i got a trigger on my thumb, the orthopaedic dictor gsve an injection abd it was good. However, i liftrd a kadder for xnas sbd it went right triggrting. Iooked at yr video this morning abd did sll what u said and si far it feels good.
I hope it will help!! Remember that it takes time for this to go away so you need to be consistent for weeks - months
Thank you much for this! I felt disheartened yesterday because I waited 4 weeks for my doctors appointment, only for him to touch my thumb and tell me that he will make a referral which he warned would take weeks/months to get an appointment. I have been instinctively stretching and massaging, so you have shown me that I’ve been on the right track! Thank you for giving me some hope of healing and getting some sleep again.
I hope it helps! Keep at it - trigger fingers are really stubborn but with consistent effort and REST they can get better in many cases.
@@ForwardTherapy thank you! I can already see some improvement, so here's hoping I have full recovery 😊
All I can say is WOW, it REALLY WORKS!!! I've been suffering with trigger thumb for the past couple of months. I’ve followed all of your recommendations (except for the splint - I simply haven’t bought one yet), and after TWO days, I’ve noticed a significant improvement. Thank you so very much for your video! One question……. Should I do the stretches EVERY day, or would it be better to periodically stop the exercises to give my thump time to “heal” from all of the stretching? Thanks again for all of your phenomenal help!
I really like the way you present your knowledge. Thank you and its good to know that you are a hand specialist.
It’s first time I watch ur channel,& I think u explain things pretty clear. Tank u for the time u take to help others feel better.🙏
Thank you, your instructions on how to do the exercises are really clear and helpful. I've been cycling most of my life and I think my trigger thumb has been caused by clicking through the gear changes. I'm a Podiatry student and so need to get this condition sorted for using the clippers and making orthotics! Hopefully your advice will help.
Your exercises helped me immensely! I still do them every day while watching TV. I went to an ortho and the first thing they wanted to do was surgery--cutting the sheath to make it bigger. I said NOPE. I opted for a cortisone shot in each thumb (not at the same time). The right thumb trigger returned and I went to Dr. Google and found your page. In very little time (and with the Oval 8) the trigger released and no longer catches. Thank you so much!!!!!
Ahhh I’m so glad to hear that! Glad the trigger doesn’t catch anymore, it’s so tough to get them to go away. Takes lots of time and patience.
I just found your video. My thumb has been locked for 3 months & I didn’t know what to do. I’m going to this out. Thank you so much for posting this♥️♥️♥️
Made the brace from 12ga. wire. 5 weeks of brace and message, FIXED!!! Thanks for the video.
Love it!
Excellent! I just developed trigger thumb &about 5 weeks ago. This relieves it so much!
Very helpful information and excellent explanation of exercises. Humanity needs more people like you👍
Thanks so much for all your videos! You have restored my faith in the possibility of me fixing my thumb without surgery. I believe I am in early stages of trigger thumb. It started in early August but it took me quite some time to figure out what it was, to research products /tools to buy and what to do. My swelling was severe while I was unintentionally pushing myself before I obtained the proper info. I will give it another 6- 8 weeks doing all items you suggested. I saw a hand specialist who was super condescending, discouraging and rude. He gave me a cortisone shot, told me I would need surgery for sure, discouraged any physical therapy and a bunch of other horrible advice. THANKS SOOOO MUCH!
Hello my doctor is pushing for surgery due to me having my 3rd cortisone shot, hows your trigger thumb doing now?
I literally just had this develop in one thumb. Thank yiu for the exercises. Ive been trying some but knuckle was popping. I wasn't doing it the right way! Now i will and will definitely do the ither things you showed us
Thanks for doing this, Kelly - very useful information, very well demonstrated and clearly explained.
This is the only video I have seen that actually helped me! After following along, my thumb could actually move more, where before it was straight and just wouldn't bend at all. I didn't do the ice yet though as i don't have any. I can actually sign my name again. You are a doll! Thank you so very much. 💕
I’m glad it helped!! Hope it gets better!
So helpful. Unfortunately, I did exactly what you said we should not do! I went from a mild , painless trigger to excruciating pain because I was trying to show my doctor what was going on 😢. So now I’m benefiting from your help. Thank you for presenting so much detail…including the uncomfortable process of massage with the ice.
Thank you for reaching out with such detailed help, Kelly. There'll be some guitar playing starting up again in our house soon, because of following your tips!
Amazing!!!
I am a guitar player who just developed TF in my thumb-- did you recover? Any advice on what I can do? Thank you!!!
kudo's to Fwd-Therapy for sharing and pointing out what not to do as well... it helped immensely! i was inadvertently making things worse by forcing my poor'lil thumb to work when it would get stuck.
Thank you for this it helped more than my video visit with my MD and a video visit with a hand surgeon. I learned a LOT from you and already feel better. I will give it a couple weeks before I accept the ONLY two suggestions from the hand specialist which are injections and surgery. I had been wearing a big brace and NO movement for 3 weeks -- THAN YOU!!! You can get the oval 8 in Amazon by the way
THANK YOU! I can't believe how much this has been bothering me for weeks. I just kept thinking it would improve with the wrist brace I had and ibuprofen-- obviously not since this is a thumb joint problem! I just ordered the splint and will do the exercises. You are a blessing.
I hope it helps!!! Thank you!
Has yours healed yet? Mine has been sticking for about 4 weeks and idk what to do lol
No, mine hasn't healed. I saw a hand orthopedic 2 weeks ago and received a steroid shot in the 2nd joint. I have another appointment in a week. The first joint only can bend slightly. Triggering can still happen occasionally but generally I've learned to not move it to trigger.
@@RonDonProductionsIt sounds like it won't heal without more doctor involvement.
@@sandybantz8299 thanks for the update. I'm going to try a few more weeks of these exercises but I may end up having to get it checked out.
Thanks so much for your tips. I have already started to work on my trigger thumb. I also have a trigger middle finger.
Blessings to you, pretty lady.
If all the reviews are any indication, your advice is right on. My case is not particularly severe but very uncomfortable so I look forward to some relief in a week or so. Thank you for you help.
Excellent video! The exercises work and helped me get my thumb action back in less than 3 weeks. My right thumb was literally swollen into an "open" position and wouldn't bend without extreme pain. A real pain since I'm right-handed. I had tried exercises from another video that didn't work. Thank you for helping so many people with this issue!
I have been suffering with a trigger thumb for a couple of weeks now. My chiropractor did an adjustment on it twice this week and it helped, but still sore. Not going to be able to get back to him for a couple of weeks and knew I couldn't manage that. I decided to Google thumb exercises and found your TH-cam video. Have gone through the exercises 2 times and already feeling relief - I actually got relief after first time. THANK YOU!
I’m so glad!!! I hope it keeps getting better!!!
Thank you, my thumb has been causing me discomfort. The thumb exercise felt really good. My thumb can move back and forth without catching with this exercise. Feels good. I will pick up a thumb splint tomorrow.
Thank you for the helpful demonstration. I was in so much pain. After seeing your video, I did the exercises and wrapped my thumb the correct way. My thumb felt so much better. It was so hard not being able to do anything. I could not get an Ortho appt for a month plus I am wary of getting a steroid shot and having another reaction to steroids. many thanks
I just watched your entire video and may have heard aprx a dozen words... Due to your beauty.... Seriously, there should be a disclaimer to make viewers aware that they will need to watch your videos twice once for being lost in your beauty and once for their trigger finger.... Thx..sincerly
I have severe osteoarthritis in my hands and wrists, and have “swollen”knuckles. I’ve had clicking in a few fingers but no trigger finger until my thumb recently started doing the trigger thing! I know it was from overdoing it with yard work. I’m taking your advice for exercise, but may end up with a hand doctor.
Thank you for this video, showing all of the stretches. I have been working on this for a couple of weeks now since a friend showed me a couple of these exercises but it helps to see them done. I have had to very painful shots and am trying to avoid surgery!
I hope the best for you!!!
Think these exercises will really help. I tried a oval 8 splint today and it already helped. Will do as you say. Thank you.
Thank you for your tips. However I heard that instead of ice you should warm the thumb and massage it in circular patterns. I heard that you should soak it in hot water for about 15 minutes and then massage it with oil or lotion. So what is better to do?
Heat helps with stiffness and can help prior to massage
Ice is to help with swelling
I really have to try your sticking it may work because the surgeries said it may help 50% change but not completely cure I felt so bad when I heard this ..why surgery won't cure this painful fingers..thank you so much.
The cross friction massage is fantastic!
Just came across your page. I am experiencing trigger thumb and I will try these exercises you just did. Thank you and I did subscribe.
I just ordered my figure eight splint. I cant wait to receive it and start using it. I woke up one morning about 2 weeks ago and noticed that my thumb was locking up and hurt when I tried to bend it. You can feel a popping in the middle joint and it is painful to move it. I do massage my thumb like you showed and my thumb will loosen up during the day. Hopefully I can get rid of this trigger thumb, it is annoying to say the least. Thank you for the video!!!
I hope it goes away quickly!!
Very very helpful and very practical exercises Thank you. Mairéad, Ireland
Two cortisone shots later, and almost 8 months suffering thinking surgery is next, I found your video. The splinting is really helping and I’ve been doing the massages and stretches for about a week. My thumb feels the best it has in months. Thank you! Will continue as I’m really feeling results!
Amazing!!!
Appreciate your video. Very informative, clear instructions, and such a soothing voice. Starting these methods today ! ✌
Thank you so much for this excellent video. You explained it all so well and the pace was perfect for learning what to do. I'm so thankful for your help.
Thank you!! I hope it helps!
OMG. Thank you! I've been suffering for months with trigger thumb on my left hand. It was sore all the time and really, really painful when it snapped. I watched this video and started this protocol. I've only iced it a few times, but the last time I did it, it felt so much better. I got a thumb splint that is kind of like a glove and I wear that when I'm going to be using my hand and want to make sure I don't let it snap. It has hurt for so long I've gotten used to favoring it so I was hardly using it except I had gotten some bad advice and was actually moving it too much and letting it snap. I'm hoping I only have another week before it is back to normal. Thank goodness!!!
That’s so awesome!
@DC If you don’t mind sharing ... What kind of glove? How did you find it?
Im goin through the same. Severe pain and snapping ‘out of joint’ constantly. It’s taking over my life 😢
Did it go back to normal?
Where do you get the splints from thanks
Oval 8 splints are found on Amazon!
I had been overusing my thumb holding the phone in a firm grip above my face while laying on my back, hence the tip of my thumb had been in a locked position for hours until one morning I woke up with stiffness and what turned out to be a “funny” trigger finger. It gets really stiff only in the mornings, but it feel uncomfortable to use the thumb during the day as well (using knife or holding something in a firm grip, that little nodule gets a little painful). Where I live there are no hand doctors, so thank you so much for sharing this knowledge. It is very much appreciated! I’ve done some research and a couple of respected medical websites also recommend stretching, but they never give any examples of exercises.
I have one questions if you don’t mind answering: given that my finger doesn’t get locked during the day, do you think I should use that thingy to immobilize the tip?
P.S. To anyone who happens to read this: learn from my mistakes and don’t use your phone the way I did. Stay strong and healthy!
Yes!! Wear the oval 8 during the day if you can during activities that cause it to lock.
My trigger thumb only happens when I'm sleeping. Should I wear the oval 8 at night when I'm sleeping for 8 hours?
Thank you sharing this video I'm hoping my thumb finger we'll be ok soon
Thank you so much for your videos! I have had painful fingers and thumb on my left hand for 3 1/2 years now and each of the practitioners I’ve seen for it tell me that it’s trigger finger but they aren’t locking. I have no locking at all but swelling, pain, loss of motion, and tender nodules. One says it could be the start of dupuytren's contracture but again no pulling. The top hand surgeon in my area says no surgery since there is also some osteoarthritis so surgery wouldn’t help. This started at 44 years old. I’m now 47. I just can’t imagine with this much pain the only option is steroid shots. That’s the only thing that has worked so far but the pain returns in 2 months. No one has recommended physical therapy either. And all the autoimmune testing including RA comes back negative. The pain is in my ring finger, pinky finger, and thumb of my left hand and a different pain in the thumb joint of my right hand which I am resigned to that being thumb arthritis. It’s the left hand that no one is providing any long term solution. It’s like I’m not being listened to or believed. The inflammation is visible. Anyway, do you have a recommendation? Would you expect your trigger finger exercises for my fingers and then work if they don’t actually lock? Is that even possible to have trigger finger in 3 fingers on one hand for 3 1/2 years and they’ve never locked? I would really appreciate your feedback. Thank you!!!
It is possible to have trigger finger that isn’t locking, but unusual that it would never have locked. Sounds like a tough situation! I’d ask your doctor for a hand therapy visit to go over a home program and talk about pain management and activity modification strategies!
This video has been really helpful at reducing pain. My question is what causes trigger thumb. I don’t do any repetitive jobs and I don’t use my cell much to type. Could some exercises like planks cause it? It did up my plank time right before symptoms appeared. I don’t know what, if anything, could have caused this. I am a 54 year old woman without diabetes/arthritis.
Trigger thumb can be caused by repetitive pinching, gripping, phone scrolling, carrying objects with the thumb, etc. any repetitive use can cause it to occur! Other things like systemic inflammatory conditions, diabetes, can also contribute.
But what if did nothing repetitive? And no diabetes/arthritis?
I would take another look at your activities, more than likely you are using the thumb more than you think! Even small things like holding something (dishes, water bottle, phone, etc) for long enough can trigger it
Thank you so much, this was truly helpful. I was over here freaking out
I hope it helps!
I would give this video a ‘thumbs up’…but i can’t😂
Good one 😂
My thumb clicks every time but once I’ve tried the massage at the base of the thumb,.. click stops👏👏👏👍👍Thank you
Hopeful this exercise suggestions will help me 🙏🏽
Thank you !! God Bless you
You are so naturally beautiful , it’s not often individuals make videos with their natural beauty without a lot of makeup, nail polish etc
You are a life saver!! I actually got the Oval 8 when you recommended it in one of your previous videos. I'm glad you posted this because I have been wearing it pretty much 24/7 for weeks...ding ding ding SHAME SHAME SHAME. Despite my error it has helped immensely. I'm looking forward to using your techniques to further my progress.
Oh I’m so glad!!! That isn’t on you, I should’ve mentioned earlier!! I just don’t want anyone to develop stiffness on top of the trigger thumb. I’m so glad it’s been helping you!!!
I'm looking for this kind of video. Thank you I found this. I will try all that thumb exercises.Thank you.🙏🙏🙏
Wow I just did the exercises that you showed my painful thumb is better!!
I've been experiencing locking and painful feeling of my left thumb recently.
Thank you so much for sharing your expertise! God bless you more!
Thank u so much for showing us how to do the massage correctly,but mine still hurts alot,anyway i will continue doing it until such time this struggle of mine with trigger thumbs end up...
You mentioned about icing. I find that my middle trigger finger bends easier/more under hot water. Please advise if heat is helpful too or not.
Best video yet on trigger thumb
This video is super helpful. Thanks. I did all the stretches with you while watching this video and will make sure to do them on a regular basis. Will post my results later.
Thanks a lot Ma'm, everything is beautifully explained about trigger thumb 🙏
I developed a trigger thumb when I started knitting during the pandemic. I guess my hands have not been used to doing this. Will try these exercises. Thank you for sharing ☺👍
I hope it helps!!! Good luck (:
Thank you so much!!! The repetitive motion of my work has given me trigger thumb. This video is extremely helpful thank you.
I hope it helps!
Hi, should I keep my thumb in a splint overnight? Thank so much for your helpful videos. ❤
I usually have people splint overnight because we aren’t in control of our movements
Thank you for your videos. I'm experiencing trigger finger in my middle finger of right hand and trigger thumb in my left. After seeing both your videos, and practicing the exercises, I'm already feeling better in three days. I don't have a source to get the splint that you have recommended, however the exercises are helpful especially with the streched arm which I do multiple times in a day. Thank you
I hope it helps! For trigger finger splints I recommend oval 8 splints (for thumb or finger) or the vive trigger finger splint (for a finger)
For the first passive stretch on the tip joint I have success isolating that joint by stretching my thumb up the side of my phone with the joint slightly wrapping the top corner of it. I can wiggle my thumb tip as much as I want without moving any other part of my thumb. Not exactly passive though but it feels right.
Great information because I am dealing with this currently. Hopefully your next video the volume so I can hear everything.
Question: Can a neck injury bring this on over time? Or is it caused by medication that could cause inflammation? I am trying to see what has brought this on since I have never had this problem in my life. If I have to make changes then I am trying to narrow down what is causing this condition. Unfortunately we all have the Adam syndrome and I am pushing 60 trips around the local star but this is just so odd to have my thumb locking up.
Mmmm not that I know of because of a neck injury. But medication, definitely! Also more common with inflammatory conditions like diabetes, gout, arthritis, etc…
Very helpful exercises and easy to actually do regularly. Steroid shot reduced the pain, but it is slow to heal. I'm confident this will help, thanks!
Thank you very much! Your instructions were exactly to my issues! I look forward to implementing your directions and feeling the relief!
I hope it helps!!
How do you know when your trigger thumb is healed without triggering it? :-) Thank you so much for your input I really appreciate it! :-)
I wait at least 4-6 weeks before having people “test” the clicking to see if it still happens, if it doesn’t you should be good to go!
Been suffer this condition in both thumbs for a few months now. Your video is helping. One question I have. Should I tape my thumbs at night? If I do they are painful in the morning and if I don’t they are also painful in the morning. I live in Australia and can’t get those very neat thumb braces anywhere.
Good info, i learned something helpful, will be applying
Super thank you. You're the only one that fixed my trigger finger. But it keeps on coming back? Huhu any reason for this?
There are a few reasons that can happen! Systemic factors like diabetes, thyroid conditions, etc can make a person more likely to develop overuse injuries. But usually the activities we do that are repetitive or overuse cause the triggering
I had trigger in both hands and after 3 shots in each hand a nurse suggested I try adding fish oil to my diet and I have not had a problem since I ve also believe that gringer as in Gringer ale is a good anti inflammatory, Reeds is a good brand to try.
That's good to know!
😊you are very kind OMG
So glad to have found you!
Awesome
Thank you for all of your videos on trigger thumb. I do these exercises/massage 3 times a day.
I’ve found that CBD salve on the painful thumb bump makes the cross massaging easier and helps with discomfort too! Does this type of massage get the bump to go away eventually? Thanks for the ice masssge tip too!!
LOL, “give this video a thumbs up!”
One question: I already wear wrist braces at night because my hands tend to go numb. They’re the kind where you stick your thumb through a separate hole, but I find it works better for my numbness to just not use the thumb hole and brace my whole hand with thumb and fingers together. Would it be better for the trigger thumb to use the thumb hole?
Also, is it okay to wear the tape at night?
This was VERY helpful. After doing the exercises, I’m already feeling some relief!Thank you so much!
often, the thumb spica type splints won't block the very tip joint of the thumb (the IP joint), which is usually the joint you want to block with trigger thumb.
I don't know if you check comments still, but just in case- if your thumb is locked straight and it hurts really bad to bend it, should you bend it with your other hand or wait for it to loosen on its own? I made the mistake of putting a thumb stabalizer on it for a few days because it helped with the pain and now it won't bend. Thank you so much for the video even if you don't respond! ❤
It won’t bend on its own, use the other hand to help it to avoid it getting too stiff! Try using heat to warm it up for 10 mins first
Thanks for posting this! You explain things very well and I find your voice so soothing! Going to give all these tips a try.
Thank you!
Gee
Thank you so very much. Incredibly helpful
Can’t wait for some cross frictions massage…🙃
The older we get, the more nodules we have
Excellent video. Super helpful information and advice. I am (healthy 68 yr old) catching mine in the early stage: no pain, just resistance then the catch. Question: did Pickleball (been playing 5 months) cause this? Does gripping the paddle and playing for one hour make it worse? I really appreciate your answer. I can’t get in to see a Physical Therapist for two weeks. Got my Oval 8 and will follow your advice. Thanks so much.
Yes, it could be!! Any sustained grip or repetitive gripping can cause it or worsen it.
Thank you so very much for the generous knowledge you share. I have trigger thumb. I am truly grateful for your excellent video. I tried to buy the Oval 8 splint through the link above that you provided, but the link is not working.
Sorry! Maybe they’ve changed the link. Search for them on Amazon or google search “oval 8 splint”, they should come up
Hi there, thanks for the tips. Can I ask you how to get rid of the pain experienced in the morning when I wake up ? Tks.
pain management can consist of many things, but in the therapy world we can recommend using heat or ice, gentle massage, and gentle stretching.
Thank you for being so caring and compassionate to post these videos. Im a firefighter and my thumb is locking constantly. Im in horrible pain and trying stretching. Do you think stretching and splinting is capable of repair or should i consider cortisone injections.
Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that! Trigger thumbs can be so tricky. It's definitely possible (I can't say exactly in your case because every person is different, and there are several phases of trigger thumb severity which can correspond to different types of treatment strategies). It's worth a try to do the stretching and splinting, but may be worth a visit to your doctor to see what they recommend (I'd recommend seeing a hand specialist rather than a PCP).