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Finger: Exercises

Introduction

Here are some examples of exercises for you to try. The exercises may be suggested for a condition or for rehabilitation. Start each exercise slowly. Ease off the exercises if you start to have pain.

You will be told when to start these exercises and which ones will work best for you.

How to do the exercises

Tendon glides

slide 1 of 4

slide 1 of 4, Tendon glides,

In this exercise, the steps follow one another to make a continuous movement.
With one hand, point your fingers and thumb straight up. Your wrist should be relaxed, following the line of your fingers and thumb.
Curl your fingers so that the top two joints in them are bent, and your fingers wrap down. Your fingertips should touch or be near the base of your fingers. Your fingers will look like a hook.
Make a fist by bending your knuckles. Your thumb can gently rest against your index (pointing) finger.
Unwind your fingers slightly so that your fingertips can touch the base of your palm. Your thumb can rest against your index finger. Hold that position for about 6 seconds.
Move back to your starting position, with your fingers and thumb pointing up.
Repeat the series of motions 8 to 12 times.
Switch hands, and repeat steps 1 through 6.

Thumb flexion/extension

slide 2 of 4

slide 2 of 4, Thumb flexion/extension,

Place your forearm and hand on a table with your thumb pointing up.
Bend your thumb downward and across your palm so that your thumb touches the base of your little finger. Hold that position for about 6 seconds. Then straighten your thumb.
Repeat 8 to 12 times.
Switch hands, and repeat steps 1 through 3.

Thumb abduction/adduction

slide 3 of 4

slide 3 of 4, Thumb abduction/adduction,

With one hand, point your fingers and thumb straight up. Your wrist should be relaxed, following the line of your fingers and thumb.
Pull your thumb away from your palm as far as you can. Hold that position for about 6 seconds. Then slowly move your thumb back to the starting position, with your thumb resting against your index (pointing) finger.
Repeat 8 to 12 times.
Switch hands, and repeat steps 1 through 3.

Finger opposition

slide 4 of 4

slide 4 of 4, Finger opposition,

With one hand, point your fingers and thumb straight up. Your wrist should be relaxed, following the line of your fingers and thumb.
Touch your thumb to each finger, one finger at a time. This will look like an "okay" sign, but try to keep your other fingers straight and pointing upward as much as you can.
Repeat 8 to 12 times.
Switch hands, and repeat steps 1 through 3.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

Where can you learn more?

Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter X265 in the search box to learn more about "Finger: Exercises".

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.