Abstract
Background: Trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis) is a common hand condition characterized by pain, stiffness, and locking of the affected digit. Although conservative management strategies, particularly splinting and corticosteroid injections, are widely implemented in clinical practice, there is currently no universally accepted gold standard for the treatment of trigger finger. Furthermore, regional evidence describing therapists' preferences and clinical decision-making processes in Saudi Arabia remains limited. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the perspectives of occupational therapists, physical therapists, and physicians in Saudi Arabia regarding preferred conservative treatment approaches for trigger finger, and to identify the key factors influencing clinical decision-making and treatment selection in the absence of a universally accepted gold standard. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study design was adopted using an online survey distributed to certified therapists and physicians across Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire collected data on demographics, clinical practices, preferred treatment modalities, and perceived treatment effectiveness. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the responses. Results: A total of 35 participants completed the survey. Splinting was identified as the most preferred treatment approach (80%), followed by activity modification (57.14%) and massage (51.43%). Pain severity (88.57%) and range of motion limitations (80%) were reported as the most influential factors guiding treatment selection. Combination therapy involving splinting and corticosteroid injection was perceived as more effective for short-term symptom relief, whereas splinting alone was ranked highest overall in perceived effectiveness. All participants recommended the inclusion of a home exercise program, commonly incorporating stretching, range-of-motion, and tendon gliding exercises. Conclusion: Therapists in Saudi Arabia predominantly favored splinting and activity modification as primary conservative management strategies for trigger finger. Treatment preferences were largely influenced by symptom severity and clinical experience. Although combination therapy demonstrated potential short-term benefits, the findings highlighted the importance of individualized, client-centered care to optimize treatment outcomes. Further rigorous studies are required to evaluate the comparative efficacy of conservative treatment options and to inform evidence-based clinical guidelines.
First Page
53
Last Page
63
Recommended Citation
Alduqsi B, Abudken N, Al-johani H, Bajunayd A.
An Exploration of Therapists' Perspectives on Treatment Approaches and Outcomes for Trigger Finger in Saudi Arabia.
J. Med. Rehab. Sci.
2026;
3(1).
https://doi.org/10.64064/3122-3370.1022
