Q I am a retiree in my 60s living in Dongincheon. I was recommended surgery by an orthopedic clinic, but can I avoid surgery through treatment at a Korean medicine clinic?
A Trigger finger surgery is a simple procedure involving the incision of the A1 pulley, but it carries risks such as a long recovery period, scarring, and tendon instability. Many cases of mild to moderate trigger finger before the locking stage have been reported to recover without surgery through combined treatment with moxibustion, acupuncture, and pharmacopuncture. However, if the condition has progressed to tendon rupture or complete fixation flexion contracture, surgery may be unavoidable, so it is important to determine the course of treatment after an accurate assessment of the condition.
Detailed Answer
Trigger finger surgery (A1 pulley incision) is a short procedure, but risks exist, including general or local anesthesia, postoperative edema and stiffness, and rarely, nerve damage. Studies that performed moxibustion treatment in the pre-operative stage (Grade 1–3) have reported loss of locking and pain improvement in over 70% of patients. Ultrasound-guided needle acupuncture is a non-surgical option that minimizes tendon damage while precisely dissecting the pulley. In Korean medicine, it is believed that while surgery removes the lesion, the underlying conditions of Qi and blood stagnation and liver and kidney weakness remain intact. Dissecting adhered pulleys with needle acupuncture achieves effects similar to a surgical incision through a minimally invasive approach; furthermore, the risk of restenosis can be reduced by promoting tissue regeneration through fire acupuncture and thread embedding, and by clearing blood stasis and dampness phlegm with herbal medicine tailored to the individual's constitution. This approach is particularly suitable for those who are hesitant about surgery or concerned about repeated recurrence.
Related FAQs
-
Q
Can trigger finger be completely cured? Is it treatable even in chronic cases? I am a woman in my 60s.
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
-
Q
I have developed trigger fingers in both hands simultaneously. Can they be treated together? I am a diabetic male in my 50s.
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
-
Q
I have both trigger finger and carpal tunnel syndrome. Can they be treated at the same time? I am a woman in my 50s.
#Comorbidities
-
Q
Are there any stretches or care methods I can do at home while undergoing treatment for trigger finger? I am a housewife in my 40s.
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
I have trigger finger; is it okay to continue working? I am in my 30s and do a lot of computer work.
#Lifestyle Management