Finger Tendon Glides
A series of finger positions that help the tendons glide smoothly through the carpal tunnel. Tendon gliding exercises are a key part of conservative treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger.
- Duration
- 5 minutes
- Sets & Reps
- 3 sets × 10 reps each hand
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Body Part
- Hand & Wrist
Equipment Needed
Benefits
- Promotes smooth tendon gliding through the carpal tunnel
- Reduces tendon adhesions after injury or surgery
- Relieves finger stiffness and improves grip
- Key exercise for carpal tunnel conservative treatment
How to Perform
- 1
Start with your hand open, fingers straight and together.
- 2
Make a hook fist – bend your fingers at the middle and end joints while keeping the big knuckles straight.
- 3
Make a tabletop fist – bend at the big knuckles only, keeping fingers straight (flat fist position). Then make a straight fist – bend at the big and middle knuckles with fingertips touching the palm.
Tip: Move through each position slowly and deliberately. - 4
Make a full fist – curl all fingers tightly into the palm. Open the hand again and repeat the full sequence on both hands.
Safety Tips
Who Should Avoid This Exercise
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Related Conditions
Carpal tunnel syndrome causes numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand due to pressure on the median nerve. Common among office workers and those performing repetitive hand movements, physiotherapy can effectively manage symptoms and prevent the need for surgery. PhysioNear makes it easy to compare physiotherapists by location, reviews, and pricing – most carpal tunnel patients pay between RM80 and RM200 per session.
Trigger finger causes a finger to lock or catch when bending, due to inflammation of the tendon sheath. Common among those with repetitive gripping tasks, physiotherapy offers effective conservative treatment through splinting, exercises, and manual therapy to restore smooth finger movement.
Repetitive strain injuries (RSI) affect workers performing repeated movements, common among office workers and factory employees in Malaysia. Physiotherapy addresses RSI through ergonomic assessment, targeted exercises, and work modification strategies to relieve symptoms and prevent recurrence.
Professional Treatment Options
Physiotherapy focused on workplace-related injuries and conditions. We help Malaysian workers recover from occupational injuries, manage repetitive strain conditions, and implement ergonomic solutions for a safe return to work and long-term injury prevention. PhysioNear has served workers across all major industries in Malaysia for 14 years. Most occupational injury patients return to full work duties within 4–8 weeks of targeted rehabilitation.
Professional ergonomic assessments for workplaces and home offices across Malaysia. Our physiotherapists evaluate your workstation setup, posture habits, and movement patterns to recommend adjustments that prevent musculoskeletal injuries and improve productivity. PhysioNear has provided ergonomic assessment referrals for 14 years, helping workers across all 16 states. Most workers report reduced neck and back discomfort within 2–3 weeks of implementing recommended changes.
Hands-on physiotherapy techniques including joint mobilization, soft tissue manipulation, and myofascial release. Our skilled physiotherapists use manual therapy to restore joint movement, reduce pain, and improve tissue flexibility for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. With 14 years of experience and 5,000+ happy patients, PhysioNear connects you with skilled manual therapists across all 16 states. Most patients experience improved range of motion after just 2–4 sessions.
Full-spectrum physiotherapy for musculoskeletal conditions affecting bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Our orthopedic physiotherapists treat fractures, joint replacements, arthritis, and sports injuries using manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and advanced modalities. PhysioNear's network spans 16 states with orthopedic-trained physiotherapists, trusted by over 5,000 patients in 14 years. Most musculoskeletal patients report pain reduction within 3–5 sessions.
More Hand & Wrist Exercises
Frequently Asked Questions
How do finger tendon glides help carpal tunnel syndrome?
Tendon glides help by promoting free movement of the flexor tendons through the carpal tunnel. When tendons can glide smoothly, there is less friction and swelling within the tunnel, reducing pressure on the median nerve. Studies show that tendon gliding exercises combined with nerve glides can be as effective as surgery for mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome.
How many times a day should I do tendon glides?
For carpal tunnel management, perform tendon glides 3-5 times per day, with 10 repetitions each session. Doing them before starting work, during breaks, and at the end of the workday is a good schedule. Consistency is more important than doing many repetitions in one session.
Can tendon glides help trigger finger?
Yes, tendon gliding exercises are commonly prescribed for trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis). They help the tendon move more freely through the tendon sheath, reducing the catching and locking sensation. Warm your hands before performing the exercises for best results.
These exercises are for educational purposes only. Consult a licensed physiotherapist or healthcare professional before starting any exercise program. Stop immediately if you experience pain, dizziness, or discomfort. These exercises are not a substitute for professional physiotherapy treatment.