Texture ladder
Graded sensory desensitization
Goal
Cortical re-mapping of tactile input; reduces protective hypersensitivity.
Motion taxonomy (reference)
Also called: sensory desensitization
Muscles — not muscle-specific
Tendons — not tendon-specific
Bones / joints — skin and superficial sensory tissues over the hand
Indexed benefits: improves sensory tolerance · reduces hypersensitivity · supports desensitization
Common contexts: nerve hypersensitivity · post-op sensory rehab · scar sensitivity
Best for
- Hypersensitivity
- Post-nerve recovery
Default dose
3 min • 2×/day
Equipment
Cloth, towel, sponge, Velcro
Avoid when
- Open wounds
Measurement targets
- Highest texture tolerated
Setup
- Gather soft cloth, towel, sponge, Velcro.
Steps
- 1Touch each texture in increasing roughness order.
- 2Start at most-tolerated, end at least-tolerated.
Cues
- Discomfort is okay; threat is not.
Common mistakes
- Jumping straight to roughest texture.
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
- Sensitivity worsens for hours after
Progressions
- Move further up the texture ladder.
Regressions
- Stay at softer textures.
Used in
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.
~3 min typical block
~3 min · 2×/day
Cloth, towel, sponge, Velcro
Phases 2, 3, 4
Generally lower load — still respect pain and swelling.
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.
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.