Tendon glide exercises

Information for patients from the Orthopaedic Hand Service

The following exercises should not be painful. However, they may feel a bit uncomfortable as your fingers and hand stretch.

Exercise 1: Table top to flat fist

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    1. Hold your wrist and fingers in a straight position.
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    2. Bend all your fingers at the knuckles, keeping your fingers straight.
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    3. Bend the middle joints of your fingers, keeping the tips straight so they touch the palm of your hand with your nails still visible. Hold for 5 seconds.
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    4. Straighten your fingers back to the starting position.

Exercise 2: Hook to full fist

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    1. Hold your wrist and fingers in a straight position.
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    2. Bend the small joints of your fingers into a hook. Keep your knuckles straight.
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    3. Roll your fingers down into a full fist by bending the knuckles. Hold for 5 seconds.
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    4. Straighten your fingers back to the starting position.

Exercise 3: Spread your fingers apart as far as possible, then back again

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    1. Hold all your fingers together.
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    2. Spread your fingers as far apart as possible.
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    3. Return to the starting position.

What if I have any questions or concerns?

If you have any questions, please call the Physiotherapy Department on 01227 783065.