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Movement library
SensoryFingersThumbPhases 2, 3, 4

Object identification (eyes closed)

Stereognosis training

Pairs tactile input with cognitive attention — drives sensory cortex remapping.

Best for

  • Sensory retraining after nerve injury

Default dose

5 reps • 1×/day

Equipment

Coins, buttons, keys, paper clips

Avoid when

  • Open fingertip wounds

Measurement targets

  • Correct identifications / 5

Setup

  • Gather small objects: coin, button, key, paper clip.

Steps

  1. 1Close eyes.
  2. 2Identify each object by touch.
  3. 3Name what you feel.

Cues

  • Active naming pairs touch with attention.

Common mistakes

  • Passive rubbing without naming.

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

  • Smaller, similar-feeling objects.

Regressions

  • Larger, distinct objects.
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

5 reps · 1×/day

Equipment

Coins, buttons, keys, paper clips

Rehab stage

Phases 2, 3, 4

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

Open fingertip wounds

Reread best-for context ↑

Keep momentum without overdoing it

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

Scaling in plain language: Easier — Larger, distinct objects. · Harder — Smaller, similar-feeling objects.Full cues ↑