Extensor Tendon Injury
An Occupational Therapy Perspective
Range of Motion Program
After an extensor tendon injury, it is important to follow a strict hand therapy programme to optimise recovery and functional use of the hand (James Cook Univeristy Hospital, 2016). An extensor tendon injury generally takes 12 weeks to repair and the advice of the hand therapist is crucial to prevent a rupture in the tendon.
Exercise is important as it allows the tendon to heal, reduces stiffness and swelling. However, too much or too little of the exercise may cause set backs in the individuals recovery from an extensor tendon injury (James Cook Univeristy Hospital, 2016).
Below is a program desgined for Felix to aid him in his recovery
MCPJ: metacarpal phalageal joints
IPJ: Interphalangeal joints
PIP: proximal interphalangeal joint
DIP: distal interphalangeal joint
Passive MCPJ Extension
Active MCPJ Extension
The Hook Exercise
The Hook Exercise
Flat Fist
Hook into Full Fist
Wrist Flexion and Extension
For futher demonstrations please see this video.
References:
Bishop, H. (2011). Extensor Tendon Repair Zone IV and above information for patients. London: Oxford University Hospital. Retreived from: http://www.ouh.nhs.uk/patient-guide/leaflets/files%5C120723extensor.pdf
James Cook University Hospital. (2016). Advices and exercises following your extensor tendon repair. The James Cook University Hospital. Reterive from: http://southtees.nhs.uk/content/uploads/MICB4470-Extensor-tendon-repair.pdf