Trigger Finger in a Male with Diabetes Successfully Treated with Acupuncture and Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment

Abstract

Abstract

Background:

Trigger finger, or flexor tendon tenosynovitis, is a relatively common condition, and it is considered to be somewhat refractory to conventional treatment in persons with diabetes.

Objectives:

This article first reviews relevant literature and then presents a case of trigger digits in a male with diabetes. The authors' treatment—using acupuncture, osteopathic manipulation, and topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs—is described.

Intervention:

The patient was treated with acupuncture once weekly for eight sessions. Osteopathic manipulation included myofascial release, muscle energy, and manipulation and articulation of the carpal bones. Topical Voltaren gel was also prescribed.

Main Outcome measure:

Resolution of trigger finger symptoms was sought.

Results:

Significant improvement was demonstrated and, at 1 year post-treatment, the patient remained asymptomatic.

Conclusions:

This case report suggests that physical modalities such as acupuncture and osteopathic manipulation can be useful in the treatment of flexor tendon tenosynovitis. Randomized controlled trials are indicated.