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Tendon Glide Exercises exercise demonstration
Exercise library

Tendon Glide Exercises

A sequence of finger positions gliding the flexor tendons through the wrist to reduce stiffness and nerve irritation.

Area
Hand
Stage
Early rehab
Equipment
No equipment

Typical dose: 2 sets × 5 reps · 3 times a day · slow and controlled. This is a general starting point, not a plan matched to your condition or stage.

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How to do it

No equipment needed - just a bit of space.

Sit or stand with your forearm supported and your wrist held straight, in line with your forearm, and your fingers held out straight.

  1. Start with your fingers straight, in line with your wrist.
  2. Bend the top two knuckles of each finger to make a hook shape, keeping the base knuckles straight.
  3. Curl the fingers the rest of the way into a full fist, thumb resting over the front.
  4. Open to a tabletop shape - base knuckles bent to a right angle, fingers straight.
  5. From the tabletop, curl the finger joints to make a straight fist, then open the hand fully to finish.

Form cues

  • Hold each shape for a few seconds and move slowly between them.
  • The wrist stays still and straight the whole time.
  • Each shape should feel like a gentle stretch, not a strong pull.

Common mistakes

  • Forcing the fingers into a shape that is stiff or painful.
  • Rushing through the positions.

Safety: Stop and message your physio if the tingling or numbness sharply worsens, spreads into more of the hand, or does not settle soon after you stop - a glide should not bring on strong pins and needles.

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