Short-Term Effects of Capacitive and Resistive Electric Transfer Therapy and Static Splinting in the Management of Trigger Finger: A Non-Randomized Clinical Study

Trigger finger (TF) is a common debilitating hand disorder that often results in pain and functional limitations. Currently accepted conservative treatments include splinting, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and corticosteroid injections. Recently, transfer energy capacitive and resistive (TECAR) therapy is emerging as a promising intervention for its potential to enhance microcirculation, reduce pain and inflammation, and stimulate tissue regeneration in various musculoskeletal conditions. However, its effectiveness for TF remains unclear. This study aims to compare the outcomes between TF conservative management with splinting alone, TECAR therapy alone, and the combined approach. Twenty-one fingers from 16 patients were included, with outcomes measured in terms of pain intensity, Green’s TF classification, frequency, severity and functional impact of triggering, and Quick-Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand. Assessments were conducted at baseline, at the fourth and eighth weeks after the initial treatment, and at one-month follow-up. Although all groups showed beneficial effects in all outcomes from baseline to the follow-up, the combined therapy group demonstrated statistically significant, quicker, and higher magnitude improvements in all clinical parameters compared to the single-treatment groups. By combining TECAR therapy with conventional splinting, TF patients may experience faster pain relief and functional recovery. Thus, integrating TECAR therapy into rehabilitation programs may represent a valuable opportunity for enhancing pain management and recovery in TF patients.