Trigger finger splint: Buying guide

Jul 13, 2023

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Trigger finger splints are specially designed straps that keep a finger straight and stop it from moving around and causing more pain.

Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition in which the sheath surrounding the flexor tendons in the finger or thumb becomes inflamed or thickened. It can cause pain and stiffness. A person may find that strapping the affected finger to a trigger finger splint provides some relief from this discomfort.

This article looks at how splints can help relieve pain associated with trigger finger and how to use finger splints. It also lists six products that people can try and suggests some alternative treatment options.

Medical News Today chooses fitness equipment that meets the following criteria:

Below are some trigger finger splints for a person to consider.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

The Vive Trigger Finger Splint uses lightweight and breathable neoprene to help wick away moisture. It also has an aluminum brace to provide support.

Vive claims that its universally sized splint will fit any finger and stay in place during wear. A person can also take advantage of fasteners that allow them to tighten or loosen the fit a little.

Vive provides a 60-day unconditional money-back guarantee.

Individuals can adjust the fasteners on this product to fit fingers up to 3 inches (in) wide and prevent slippage.

Dr. Frederick’s Original Trigger Finger Splint features soft padding for added comfort. It offers a universal fit, with adjustable Velcro straps to help provide the best fit. A person can wear it on the middle, ring, or index finger.

The company claims that this product is doctor-designed and lasts for months. It comes with a money-back guarantee in case a person is unsatisfied with their purchase.

This splint is in two pieces, making it fully adjustable.

The Neo G Finger Splint comes in four different lengths and can fit both the left and right hand. It has a flexible shell that can bend into the required shape.

It also contains a soft cushion for comfort and grip. The materials — aluminum, neoprene, and polyurethane — may add support and ventilation.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has registered this splint as a class 1 medical device. The supportive shell for this splint can mold to meet each person’s needs, improving fit and comfort.

The Mcvcoyh Finger Splint offers a universal size, with fasteners to adjust the fit. The splint features aluminum for support.

This splint comes in different versions for the right and left hand, which can help enhance the fit and usability of the product.

The drawback is that it only works for the middle three fingers.

The product uses a lightweight aluminum brace for support and a soft sponge for comfort.

Designed for individual fingers, the product consists of an assortment of three splints in small, medium, and large sizes.

The BodyMoves Finger Splint encases the full finger. It offers a universal fit and two straps to adjust the tightness. It can work on any finger.

The splint contains breathable materials and is fully washable. It also comes in a variety of colors, which may make it more appealing to some people.

The manufacturer states that one size is suitable for men, women, children, and older adults and that it fits all fingers with up to a 3.5-in circumference.

This product comes in packs of two, three, four, and 12.

Older research has shown statistically significant improvements in triggering events and perceived pain in people who use trigger finger splints. Another older study found that finger splinting using a custom metacarpophalangeal splint improves comfort and reduces the frequency of triggering.

The American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) suggests that splinting during sleep is useful in preventing pain. When a person lies down, fluid often builds up in the arms and hands. This additional fluid can cause swelling, which can increase the likelihood of pain and the finger locking during sleep.

Wearing a trigger finger splint can help prevent pain during the night, allowing a person to sleep. However, the ASSH also warns that on waking, a person may need to spend more time warming up their finger for movement.

A person may wish to consider several factors when looking for a trigger finger splint. These include:

The below table compares the products in this article.

Some alternative treatments for trigger finger include:

Some additional treatment options include massage, heat therapy, and changes in activity.

Below are the answers to some common questions relating to finger splints

To splint a finger for trigger finger, extend the finger, and apply the splint. This promotes healing by limiting the use of the tendon, reducing irritation and inflammation.

The ASSH states that splinting a trigger finger during sleep could help reduce the pain and locking associated with the condition.

The best splint for an affected finger will depend on various factors, including:

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states that a trigger finger splint could help hold an affected digit in a straightened position during sleep, which may prevent discomfort.

A person with trigger finger may benefit from wearing a splint on their finger to keep it straight and prevent it from moving. This may minimize pain and be particularly helpful during sleep.

A person may wish to check that they are buying a splint made from breathable materials, especially if they intend to wear it for extended periods.

A person should also consult a doctor if they think they have trigger finger, as further treatment may be necessary. Splinting may not be a good long-term solution.