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
Thumb IP flexion
![Picture of the thumb IP flexion exercise Picture of the thumb IP flexion exercise](https://ixbapi.healthwise.net/Resource/14.1/en-us/media/medical/hw/h9991678_001_pi.jpg)
slide 1 of 3
slide 1 of 3, Thumb IP flexion,
- Place your forearm and hand on a table with your affected thumb pointing up.
- With your other hand, hold your thumb steady just below the joint nearest your thumbnail.
- Bend the tip of your thumb downward, then straighten it.
- Repeat 8 to 12 times.
- Switch hands and repeat steps 1 through 4, even if only one thumb is sore.
Thumb MP flexion
![Picture of the thumb MP flexion exercise Picture of the thumb MP flexion exercise](https://ixbapi.healthwise.net/Resource/14.1/en-us/media/medical/hw/h9991677_001_pi.jpg)
slide 2 of 3
slide 2 of 3, Thumb MP flexion,
- Place your forearm and hand on a table with your affected thumb pointing up.
- With your other hand, hold the base of your thumb and palm steady.
- Bend your thumb downward where it meets your palm, then straighten it.
- Repeat 8 to 12 times.
- Switch hands and repeat steps 1 through 4, even if only one thumb is sore.
Thumb opposition
![Picture of the thumb opposition exercise Picture of the thumb opposition exercise](https://ixbapi.healthwise.net/Resource/14.1/en-us/media/medical/hw/h9991444_002_pi.jpg)
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slide 3 of 3, Thumb opposition,
- With your affected hand, point your fingers and thumb straight up. Your wrist should be relaxed, following the line of your fingers and thumb.
- Touch your affected 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, even if only one thumb is sore.
Current as of: July 17, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.