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Movement library
Tendon glideFingersPhases 1, 2, 3, 4

Tendon glide sequence

Wehbe-Hunter tendon glide sequence

Maximizes differential excursion of FDS and FDP — first-line program for finger stiffness and CTS-related tendon mobility.

Best for

  • Stiffness
  • Adhesion prevention
  • Carpal tunnel programs

Default dose

10 reps • 1 sets • 3×/day

Avoid when

  • Active flexor repair without clearance

Measurement targets

  • Composite finger flexion
  • Photo: full fist

Setup

  • Hand at chest height, relaxed.

Steps

  1. 1Straight hand → hook fist → full fist → tabletop → straight fist → straight hand.
  2. 2Hold each position 2–3 seconds.

Cues

  • Smooth transitions; the goal is glide, not crush.

Common mistakes

  • Skipping positions.
  • Forcing the fist.

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 2–3 sec hold at each position.

Regressions

  • Skip the hardest position; build up over days.
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

Short sets — often 1×10 as a micro-session

10 reps · 1 sets · 3×/day

Equipment

None required — table or bodyweight only.

Rehab stage

Phases 1, 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

Active flexor repair without clearance

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 — Skip the hardest position; build up over days. · Harder — Add 2–3 sec hold at each position.Full cues ↑