Treating Stenosing Tenosynovitis: A Non-Surgical Success Story with Shockwave Therapy, Graston, and Active Release Techniques
When Surgery Wasn't the Only Option
Stenosing tenosynovitis, commonly known as trigger finger, can be a frustrating and limiting condition—especially for those who rely on their hands for precision and performance. For one of our recent patients, a mid-70s competitive archer, the inability to fully extend his third digit without pain was more than just an inconvenience; it was a potential career-ending problem.
He had been dealing with the issue for three months, unable to extend his third finger fully without significant discomfort. The finger remained stuck at 30 degrees of flexion, making gripping and releasing his bowstring nearly impossible. His previous medical consultations had led to the conclusion that surgery was the only way forward.
But what if there was another way?
The Treatment Plan: A Multi-Therapy Approach
Rather than resorting to invasive procedures, we developed a conservative treatment plan combining:
✅ Shockwave Therapy – Stimulating blood flow and breaking down adhesions in the affected tendon sheath.
✅ Graston Technique – Targeting the thickened and scarred tissue, reducing restriction and improving tendon glide.
✅ Active Release Techniques (ART) – Addressing the underlying tension and adhesions in the flexor tendon, restoring normal movement patterns.
Over five shockwave sessions and three focused ART and Graston treatments, we saw progressive improvement in both mobility and pain reduction.
The Results: From Stiff and Painful to Full Extension
Before
After
After just one session, we captured a striking before-and-after moment:
📷 Before Treatment: The patient’s finger was stuck in 30 degrees of flexion and required painful effort to extend.
📷 After the First Visit: He could extend his finger without the same level of discomfort, a dramatic change in just one session.
But the real success came after completing the full treatment plan—by the fifth shockwave session, the patient reported that his affected finger now moves better than his other fingers.
Why This Approach Worked
🔹 Targeting Adhesions: The combination of Graston and ART helped to break up restrictions in the flexor tendon sheath, improving glide and reducing mechanical locking.
🔹 Restoring Circulation: Shockwave therapy stimulated localized blood flow and cell regeneration, accelerating tissue healing.
🔹 Avoiding Surgery: Many cases of stenosing tenosynovitis result from repetitive strain rather than an irreversible structural defect. By addressing the root dysfunction, we restored pain-free movement without the need for invasive intervention.
Key Takeaways: A Non-Surgical Option for Trigger Finger
For those struggling with chronic trigger finger symptoms, this case highlights the power of a multi-modal approach combining soft tissue techniques with regenerative therapies. If you or someone you know has been told surgery is the only option, there may be an alternative worth exploring.
📍 Interested in learning more about our evidence-based approach to hand and wrist conditions? Contact us today to find out if non-invasive treatment options are right for you!