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- What is this exercise programme for?
- How often should I do these exercises?
- Do not
- Exercise 1: finger walking
- Exercise 2: finger bends
- Exercise 3: thumb flexion
- Exercise 4: thumb opposition
- Exercise 5: wrist stretch
- Exercise 6: wrist handshake
- Exercise 7: forearm rotation
- Who can I contact for further information and advice?
Name and contact number of therapist:
Date issued:
Therapist comments:
What is this exercise programme for?
This exercise programme has been made for you to follow so that you can exercise the joints, muscles and tendons of your hands and wrists.
If you follow this programme, it will help you to maintain your range of movement, grip and strength.
How often should I do these exercises?
Complete these daily.
Do 3 to 5 repetitions, holding them for 3 to 5 seconds every time.
If this causes no increase in pain or other difficulties increase to 10 repetitions (record date here)
If this causes no increase in pain or other difficulties increase to 10 second holds (record date here)
Be aware:
You may get some pain while doing the exercise. If your hands are painful for more than half an hour after exercising, you may have done too much. Try soaking your hands in warm water when exercising.
Relax between each exercise by wriggling your fingers.
Do not
- do these exercises when the joints are actively inflamed (red, hot, swollen and painful). An inflamed joint needs to be rested but you can gently stretch the joints regularly during a flare up.
Exercise 1: finger walking




Exercise 2: finger bends





Exercise 3: thumb flexion

Exercise 4: thumb opposition

Exercise 5: wrist stretch


Exercise 6: wrist handshake


Exercise 7: forearm rotation


Who can I contact for further information and advice?
Please do not hesitate to contact your Rheumatology Occupational Therapist on:
Brighton General Hospital
01273 696011
Ext. 4071
Princess Royal Hospital
01444 441881
Ext. 68266
Southlands or Worthing Hospitals
01273 446060
The information in this leaflet is for guidance purposes only and is in no way intended to replace professional clinical advice by a qualified practitioner.
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