Article

PURPOSE: To evaluate the impact of trigger finger (TF) on hand motor function,
activity and participation (A&P) and quality of life (QOL), and to evaluate the
association between personal factors (age and gender, disease severity) and body
functions (dexterity and strength) with A&P and QOL in patients with TF. METHODS:
Sixty-six patients with TF (study group) and 66 healthy volunteers (control
group) participated in the study. TF symptoms were graded using the Quinnell
classification. A&P was evaluated using the Disabilities of Arm Shoulder and Hand
questionnaire and the QOL using the World Health Organization Quality of Life
questionnaire. Dexterity was evaluated using the Functional Dexterity Test and
the Purdue Pegboard Test; hand strength was evaluated using the Jamar Dynamometer
and Pinch Gauge. RESULTS: The comparisons between the study and control groups
revealed significant differences in all measures. The study group reported lower
perceived QOL, A&P and reduced hand strength and dexterity. Hierarchical
regression analyses revealed that (a) the severity of TF contributed
significantly to the explained variance of QOL, while demographics and hand
functioning did not; (b) demographics, TF severity and hand function all
contributed significantly to the explained variance of A&P. CONCLUSION: The
findings of the study point to the importance of addressing the functional
implications and QOL of individuals with TF. Implications for Rehabilitation
Although trigger finger is considered to be a mild hand pathology, it has a
wide-ranging impact on hand functioning, daily activities and quality of life.
Clinicians should include assessments of these outcomes in the treatment of
individuals with trigger finger. Treatment efficacy should be evaluated with
International Classification of Functioning outcomes, and not limited to
symptomatology.

Langue : ANGLAIS