Movement library
Tendon glideThumbmoderatePhases 2, 3
Thumb tip bend
Thumb IP flexion / extension (FPL/EPL glide)
Selective FPL glide and IP joint motion.
Avoid when
- FPL repair without clearance
Measurement targets
- IP active flexion (degrees)
Setup
- Stabilize the thumb base with the other hand.
Steps
- 1Bend only the tip joint of the thumb.
- 2Straighten with control.
Cues
- Move only the tip; base stays still.
Common mistakes
- Whole thumb curling.
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 small object pinch with the tip.
Regressions
- Smaller range.
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 · 2×/day
Equipment
None required — table or bodyweight only.
Rehab stage
Phases 2, 3
Higher load or coordination — scale range and speed.
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.
- Full fisttendon-glide · moderate risk
- Straight fisttendon-glide · moderate risk
- DIP blockingtendon-glide · moderate risk
- PIP blockingtendon-glide · moderate risk
- Thumb retropulsion (lift)mobility · moderate risk
- Tendon glide sequencetendon-glide
- Hook fisttendon-glide
- Differential tendon glidetendon-glide · moderate risk
Keep momentum without overdoing it
Log a short check-in to protect your streak — even one quality set counts.
Scaling in plain language: Easier — Smaller range. · Harder — Add small object pinch with the tip.Full cues ↑