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1. Rolling and Pinching

  • On a flat surface, roll out the putty, backwards and forwards to feel a stretch in the palm and under the fingers.  With your wrist slightly extended, pinch the putty from on end to the other alternating your index and middle fingers with your thumb.  As you pinch, try to make an “O” shape.
  • Turn the pinched putty sausage on its side and pinch again from one end to the other, moving the hand away from the body. 
  • Repeat x 3

rolling and pinching.png

2. Cylindrical Squeezing

  • Grip the putty in your hand as if holding a canned drink.
  • Keeping your fingers together, tuck the fingers in as you 
  • squeeze the putty.    Repeat x 3, 5 second holds.

cylindrical squeezing.png

3. Spherical Squeezing and Reshaping

  • Grip the putty as if holding a tennis ball.
  • Squeeze the putty for a slow count of 5 until it oozes out between your fingers.   
  • Reshape the putty without help from the other hand, rolling on the table or tossing it in the air.
  • Repeat x 3 and then roll out the putty to stretch the muscles in your hand.

spherical squeezing and reshaping.png

Gradually try to build up sets of 3 squeezes, rolling the putty out after each set.  Suggested guide:

Week 1:   1 Set of 3 squeezes/reshape, one or both hands
Week 2:   2 Sets of 3 squeezes/reshapes, one or both hands
Week 3:   3 Sets of 3 squeezes/reshapes, one or both hands
Week 4:   2 Sets of 5 squeezes/reshape, one or both hands
Week 5:   3 Sets of 5 squeezes/reshape, one or both hands                   Maintain.


It is important not to do strengthening exercises during a flare-up as this will irritate the joints and make them more inflamed.

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/117

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.