Thumb Opposition
Hand/Fingers
Phase 2
Sets
Reps
5
5
Week: 2-4
Thumb Opposition
Purpose: Restore thumb mobility and coordination for pinching, buttoning, and grasping.
Equipment: None; optional small object (coin) later.
How to do it:
1) Start with your hand open.
2) Touch the tip of your thumb to the tip of your index finger.
3) Continue to middle, ring, and small finger.
4) Next, slide the thumb down toward the base of the small finger (as comfortable), then return.
Tips:
- Move slowly; keep the rest of the hand relaxed.
- If stiffness is high, warm the hand first (warm towel) for 3–5 minutes.
Dosage: 5 sets of 10 reps (or seconds/holds if that is how your therapist prescribed it). Rest 30–60 seconds between sets.
Progression:
- Add light pinch on a soft sponge/putty between thumb and each finger.
- Practice picking up small objects once cleared.
Comfort and safety:
Move slowly and stay in a comfortable range. A mild stretch or light muscle fatigue is okay; sharp pain is not.
Stop and contact your care team if you notice increasing swelling, redness, warmth, drainage, fever, or new/worsening numbness/tingling.
Follow any post-op precautions, lifting limits, and motion restrictions given by your surgeon or therapist.