Hand and wrist · Mobility

Passive mobilization of the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP)

Passive mobilization of the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP), 3 sets, 10 repetitions per finger

Listen to the instructions

How to do the exercise

Sets: 3

Repetitions: 10 per finger

Description: With the forearm stable and the hand clearly visible, position the wrist and fingers in a neutral position. Use the opposite hand to gently mobilize the proximal interphalangeal joint of each finger with a controlled movement up to the maximum range without forcing or compensating with the elbow or shoulder. Slowly return to the starting position after each mobilization.

Tips: Ensure the forearm remains immobile to isolate the movement to the PIP joint. Perform movements slowly and without pain to avoid unnecessary tension.

Progression: Gradually increase the mobilization range according to tolerance and flexibility regained.

At a glance

Goal: Mobility
Level: Beginner
Equipment: none
Starting position: Forearm stable, hand in neutral position
Clinical goal: Improve the mobility of the proximal interphalangeal joints of the fingers
Also known as: Passive mobilization of PIP joint, Finger joint mobilization, Proximal interphalangeal joint mobilization

Precautions

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

acute pain
active joint inflammation

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.

Create a program for free Discover the software

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

Similar exercises — Hand and wrist

Radius Traction for Wrist MobilityRadius traction, 3 sets, 10 repetitions, controlled movement, assistance from opposite hand

Totten and Hunter Median Nerve MobilizationTotten and Hunter median nerve mobilization, 3 sets, 10 repetitions, slow and controlled movement.

Transverse Glide of the Median NerveTransverse glide of the median nerve, 3 sets, 10 repetitions, slow and controlled movement

Ulnar and radial inclination mobilization of the wristUlnar and radial wrist inclination mobilization, 3 sets, 10 repetitions, slow and controlled return

Wrist Extension Mobilization with TractionWrist Extension Mobilization with Traction, 3 sets, 10 repetitions, slow return to flexion

Wrist Flexion-Extension Mobilization Against ResistanceWrist flexion-extension mobilization against resistance, 3 sets, 12 repetitions

Wrist Global Mobilization with StickWrist global mobilization with stick, 3 sets, 10 repetitions in each direction

Active Flexion of the Proximal Interphalangeal (PIP) Joint of the FingerActive flexion of the finger's PIP joint, 3 sets, 10 repetitions per finger

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.