Treatment of Trigger Finger With Metacarpophalangeal Joint Blocking Orthosis Versus Relative Motion Extension Orthosis

Generally, three types of orthoses are used in the treatment of trigger finger. Some authors used MCP blocking orthosis, while others used DIP or PIP blocking orthosis. Comparative studies are quite limited, as only one study comparing two orthotic designs found that the MCP blocking orthosis was more effective than the DIP blocking orthosis.The MCP blocking orthosis, which restricts the MCP joint to 10-15° of flexion, is commonly used in the conservative treatment of trigger finger.An RME orthosis could be an alternative orthotic treatment option for trigger finger because it holds the MCP in an extended position. The RME orthosis is thought to prevent flexion of the affected finger, thereby limiting tendon glide. This reduces the pressure on the A1 pulley, allowing the tendon to glide more smoothly, reducing the likelihood of triggering. Despite limiting motion,the orthosis still allows the patient to perform daily activities with the orthosis. Therefore, positioning the MCP joint in extension could provide additional benefits in trigger finger. The relative motion orthosis is a new orthotic design that positions the affected finger in 10-15 degrees of extension relative to the adjacent fingers.It also has several advantages, including small size, low-profile design, easy and inexpensive fabrication, and better patient compliance. The primary objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of a 6-week orthotic intervention for pain relief in a randomly selected group of patients with TF using the MCP blocking orthosis and the RME orthosis. The secondary objective was to determine the comparative effectiveness of the orthoses on function and satisfaction with the orthosis.