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Finger: Exercises

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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,
  1. In this exercise, the steps follow one another to a make a continuous movement.
  2. Hold your hand upward. Your fingers and thumb will be pointing straight up. Your wrist should be relaxed, following the line of your fingers and thumb.
  3. 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.
  4. Make a fist by bending your knuckles. Your thumb can gently rest against your index (pointing) finger.
  5. Unwind your fingers slightly so that your fingertips can touch the base of your palm. Your thumb can rest against your index finger.
  6. Return to your starting position, with your fingers and thumb pointing up.
  7. Repeat the series of motions 8 to 12 times.
  8. It's a good idea to repeat these steps with your other hand.

Thumb flexion and extension

slide 2 of 4
slide 2 of 4, Thumb flexion and extension,
  1. Place your affected hand on a table with your thumb pointing up.
  2. Bend your thumb downward and across your palm. Your thumb should touch the base of your little finger.
  3. Hold for about 6 seconds. Then straighten your thumb.
  4. Repeat 8 to 12 times.
  5. It's a good idea to repeat these steps with your other hand.

Thumb adduction and abduction

slide 3 of 4
slide 3 of 4, Thumb adduction and abduction,
  1. With your affected hand, point your fingers and thumb straight up. Your wrist should be relaxed and straight.
  2. Move your thumb away from your palm as far as you can. Hold for about 6 seconds. Then move your thumb back to the starting position, with your thumb resting against your index (pointing) finger.
  3. Repeat 8 to 12 times.
  4. It's a good idea to repeat these steps with your other hand.

Finger-thumb opposition

slide 4 of 4
slide 4 of 4, Finger-thumb opposition,
  1. With one hand, point your fingers and thumb straight up. Your wrist should be relaxed, following the line of your fingers and thumb.
  2. Touch your thumb to each finger, one finger at a time. This will look like an "okay" sign. Try to make the circle as round as you can. And try to keep your other fingers as straight as you can.
  3. Repeat 8 to 12 times with each hand.

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 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.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.