Reverse DIP blocking
Isolated DIP extension with PIP stabilized in flexion
Goal
Selective terminal extensor recruitment with PIP flexed — useful when DIP extension is lagging but central slip concerns are ruled out by the treating clinician.
Motion taxonomy (reference)
Also called: isolated dip extension
Muscles — extensor digitorum, terminal extensor mechanism
Tendons — extensor tendon at DIP
Bones / joints — DIP joint, distal phalanx, middle phalanx
Indexed benefits: helps tendon balance · improves DIP extension · targets DIP lag
Common contexts: DIP extension lag · distal control · mallet-type recovery when cleared
Best for
- DIP extension lag
- Distal joint stiffness after immobilization (cleared)
Default dose
8 reps • 2×/day
Setup
- Stabilize the middle phalanx with the other hand so the PIP stays gently bent.
Steps
- 1Keeping the middle joint bent, straighten only the tip joint.
- 2Lower the tip slowly.
Cues
- Small range; quality over force.
- The middle joint should not straighten during the move.
Common mistakes
- Straightening the whole finger together.
- Pushing into sharp pain at the tip.
Stop if you feel
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
- Joint clicks or new instability
Progressions
- Add a brief 2–3 sec hold at end range when comfortable.
Regressions
- Smaller range; fewer reps; longer rests between reps.
Used in(3 guided demos)
Search the exercise library with this motion's clinical label for additional guided drills that may match your plan.
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.
~2–5 min as a focused practice block
8 reps · 2×/day
None required — table or bodyweight only.
Phases 2, 3
Higher load or coordination — scale range and speed.
Avoid if this sounds like you
Mallet finger / acute extensor tendon injury at the DIP without clearance
Boutonniere pattern or central slip concern
Reread best-for context ↑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.
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.