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Movement library
Tendon glideFingersPhases 1, 2, 3

Hook fist

Intrinsic-minus / claw position (FDS + FDP without MCP flexion)

Targets differential glide between FDP and FDS, key for preventing adhesions after immobilization.

Best for

  • FDP and FDS differential glide
  • Adhesion prevention

Default dose

10 reps • 3×/day

Avoid when

  • Within early flexor tendon repair protocol windows

Measurement targets

  • Fingertip-to-distal-palmar-crease gap

Setup

  • Hand starts in straight position, fingers together.

Steps

  1. 1Bend the DIP and PIP joints while keeping the MCP joints straight.
  2. 2Hold 2 seconds.
  3. 3Return to straight hand.

Cues

  • Imagine making a 'claw' — knuckles stay straight.

Common mistakes

  • Letting the MCP knuckles drop into flexion.

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 gentle blocking at PIP.

Regressions

  • Reduce range; assist with the other hand.
Continue your rehab

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.

Estimated time

~2–5 min as a focused practice block

10 reps · 3×/day

Equipment

None required — table or bodyweight only.

Rehab stage

Phases 1, 2, 3

Generally lower load — still respect pain and swelling.

When to stop

Sharp pain (≥ 4/10)

Increasing swelling during or after

Full stop rules ↑

Avoid if this sounds like you

Within early flexor tendon repair protocol windows

Reread best-for context ↑

Guided exercises that use this

Step-by-step sessions that embed this movement pattern.

Keep momentum without overdoing it

Log a short check-in to protect your streak — even one quality set counts.

Scaling in plain language: Easier — Reduce range; assist with the other hand. · Harder — Add gentle blocking at PIP.Full cues ↑