Full fist
Composite finger flexion
Completes composite flexion arc; pairs with hook fist for full tendon excursion.
Best for
- Composite flexion
- Total finger ROM
Default dose
10 reps • 3×/day
Avoid when
- Active flexor tendon repair without clearance
- Trigger finger flare with painful catching
Measurement targets
- Fingertip-to-palm gap
- Photo: lateral view of fist
Setup
- Hand starts in hook fist.
Steps
- 1Continue the bend so the MCP knuckles also flex.
- 2Make a soft, complete fist.
- 3Open slowly.
Cues
- Squeeze gently — not for strength, for motion.
- Thumb wraps softly outside fingers.
Common mistakes
- Forcing the fist past comfort.
- Crushing — this is mobility, not strength.
Stop rules
- Sharp pain (≥ 4/10)
- Increasing swelling during or after
- New or worsening numbness or tingling
- Color change in fingers (pale, blue, red)
- Wound opens, drains, or feels hot
- Next morning is worse than the day before
Progressions
- Add a soft sponge inside the fist.
Regressions
- Stop where motion is comfortable; build daily.
What to do next — not a dead end
Suggestions use body region, goal, motion type, and allowed phases — not your medical record. After surgery or a flare, follow your clinician first.
~2–5 min as a focused practice block
10 reps · 3×/day
None required — table or bodyweight only.
Phases 2, 3, 4
Higher load or coordination — scale range and speed.
Avoid if this sounds like you
Active flexor tendon repair without clearance
Trigger finger flare with painful catching
Reread best-for context ↑Where this shows up clinically
How phases map to healingNext best movements
Later phase or richer progression when you are ready.
Prerequisite / gentler lane
Same region and intent — usually earlier phase or lower risk.
Commonly paired with
Different primary goal, same region — typical mixed sessions.
Related movements
Similar mechanics, goals, or anatomy.
Keep momentum without overdoing it
Log a short check-in to protect your streak — even one quality set counts.