Hand and wrist · Mobility

Gradual Finger Flexion

Gradual finger flexion, 3 sets, 8 repetitions, start with hand open

Illustration of the Gradual Finger Flexion exercise

Listen to the instructions

How to do the exercise

Sets: 3

Repetitions: 8

Description: Begin with your hand open, fingers extended. Slowly bend each joint of the fingers (MCP, PIP, DIP) segmentally, by gradually rolling the fingers towards the palm until a fist or claw position is formed. For the opposition variation, bring the thumb to a specific finger while the other fingers remain extended.

Tips: Perform the movement slowly to feel each joint bending properly. Do not force if you experience pain. Keep the hand relaxed between each repetition.

Progression: Gradually increase the number of repetitions or hold the end position for a few seconds to improve stretching.

At a glance

Goal
Mobility
Level
Beginner
Equipment
none
Starting position
Hand open, fingers extended
Clinical goal
Stretching and mobility of fingers and wrist
Also known as
finger flexion, segmented finger bending, finger bending exercises, finger joint mobility

Precautions

Avoid this exercise, or check with your physiotherapist first, if you have:

Are you a physiotherapist?

Add this exercise to a personalised program in Physia: the AI builds the program in 30 seconds from the condition, then you send it to your patient by link, QR code or email.

Patient? Ask your physio to send your program to the free Physia Move app. Open Physia Move

Similar exercises — Hand and wrist

See all hand and wrist exercises →

This information is educational and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional. Ask your physiotherapist or doctor before starting, especially if you have pain, a recent injury or have had surgery.