Trigger Finger Release

University of Virginia Orthopaedic Surgery

Weight-Bearing

NWB initially; functional use within soft tissue tolerance from Phase 2

Key Restrictions

No resistance strengthening until 4-6 weeks; no postop orthosis unless PIP flexion contracture present (then static night extension orthosis or LMB dynamic PIP extension orthosis)

Timeline & Phases

Phase 1 (0-2 wks): NO orthosis, AROM tendon glides, wrist 4-way/forearm/elbow AROM; Phase 2 (2-6 wks): joint blocking, tendon glides with place-and-hold if active lag, dexterity, scar management, desensitization; static night extension or LMB dynamic orthosis only if PIP contracture present; Phase 3 (6-12 wks): gentle strengthening, address persistent PIP contracture with hook fisting and reverse blocking

Notes

No postop splint or orthosis routinely required (unique among UVA protocols); static night extension orthosis or LMB dynamic extension orthosis only for PIP flexion contracture; ergonomics education to prevent trigger fingers in uninvolved digits; padded glove or hand sleeve for comfort PRN

Published

09/2024