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Movement library
Tendon glideFingersmoderatePhases 2, 3

PIP blocking

Isolated PIP flexion with MCP stabilized

Targets PIP joint capsule and FDS glide.

Best for

  • FDS isolation
  • Recovering PIP motion

Default dose

10 reps • 2×/day

Avoid when

  • PIP joint instability

Measurement targets

  • PIP active flexion (degrees)

Setup

  • Stabilize the proximal phalanx with the other hand.

Steps

  1. 1Bend only the middle joint of the finger.
  2. 2Straighten with control.

Cues

Common mistakes

  • MCP joint flexing instead of PIP.

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

  • Hold end range 3–5 sec.

Regressions

  • Reduce range; rest between reps.
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.

When to stop

Sharp pain (≥ 4/10)

Increasing swelling during or after

Full stop rules ↑

Avoid if this sounds like you

PIP joint instability

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 — Reduce range; rest between reps. · Harder — Hold end range 3–5 sec.Full cues ↑