Hand therapy passive thumb exercises

This patient leaflet is for patients who have injured their thumb. The aim of the leaflet is to provide information on exercises.

Following an injury to your thumb, you may experience some swelling and stiffness of the thumb. This is very normal and over time these should improve. When a thumb is injured sometimes soft tissue (tendons, ligaments and muscle) can also be involved, this can make recovery slower. Also swelling (oedema) can restrict movement of a joint, making the thumb stiff.

The following exercises will help to reduce stiffness and increase thumb movement. When completing the following exercises you may experience tightness or a pulling sensation, this is normal. If you experience a sharp pain, reduce the intensity of the exercises or stop for a couple of days to allow the pain to stop.

Begin with your hand in a comfortable position. Complete the exercises slowly, within a comfortable range.

Contacts/further information

The occupational therapy department is located in clinic 30 in the Addenbrooke’s Treatment Centre (ATC). The occupational therapy reception telephone number is 01223 216769

References/sources of evidence

Skirven, T. M., Osterman, A. L et al (2021). Rehabilitation of the Hand and upper extremity, 2-volume set (7th ed.). Elsevier.