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1. Finger hook to fist flexion 

  • Keeping the knuckles straight, bend your fingers so that the tips touch the finger bases.
  • Then bend the knuckles to make a complete fist.
  • Straighten the fingers and thumb out fully.
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2. Finger and thumb span

  • Spread your fingers and thumb apart as much as possible.
  • Then bring them back together.
     
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3. Opposing the fingers

  • Touch your thumb tip to each fingertip in turn.  
  • Make an “O” shape as you do this.
  • When you reach to the tip of the little finger, slide the thumb down to the base of the little finger before stretching the thumb out again.
     
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4. Finger walking towards your thumb

  • Rest your hand flat on the table and stretch your thumb out to the side.
  • Slowly walk your fingers, one by one TOWARDS your thumb.
  • Lift your hand up off the table to restart the exercise.
  • Do not walk the fingers back towards the little finger.
     
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5. Isolated finger bends

  • Support/hold the bone directly beneath the joint you wish to exercise
  • Bend the joint and then straighten as fully as possible
     

The exercises should be performed in a slow, controlled manner. They should not cause you pain. An ache or pull is normal and this should subside within half an hour of finishing the exercises.

If you are feeling an ache for longer than this or are experiencing pain you should try reducing the number of exercises you do each time or decrease how far you push each exercise.

Contact details

Hand therapy departments:

0300 6133396 for Frimley

0300 6140540 then Option 2 Wexham or Option 3 for Heatherwood

Contact us

If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Hand therapy service.

About this information

Service:
Hand therapy

Reference:
UU/118

Approval date:
27 February 2026

Review date:
1 February 2029

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Important note 

This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.