Therapeutic exercise
Thumb Extension with a Rubber Band
Isolated strengthening of the extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus with a rubber band. In the recovery phase of De Quervain's tenosynovitis, controlled progressive loading promotes tendon remodeling and restores functional capacity.
How to perform
- Starting position. Rest the hand on a table with the palm down and the thumb relaxed alongside the index finger.
- Step 2. Place a small rubber band around the thumb and index finger, with the band slightly tensioned.
- Step 3. Raise the thumb laterally (combined abduction and extension), moving it away from the index finger against the band resistance.
- Step 4. Hold the maximum position for 2 seconds, feeling the contraction on the radial side of the wrist.
- Return. Return slowly over 3 seconds to the starting position. Initial range may be small — quality of movement matters more than distance.
When not to perform
- De Quervain's tenosynovitis in an acute inflammatory phase
- Symptomatic rhizarthrosis
- Acute injury of the ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb
- Recent thumb surgery
- Non-consolidated fracture of the first metacarpal or phalanx
- Pain that persists more than 24 hours after the exercise
Medical disclaimer. These exercises are presented for informational purposes only. Always consult your physician before starting any exercise program, especially in case of acute pain, recent injury, or underlying clinical condition.
Related Exercises
Finkelstein Stretch
Specific stretch of the tendons of the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis in the first dorsal compartment. It is the Finkelstein maneuver applied as a therapeutic stretch — essential in the conservative treatment of De Quervain's tenosynovitis.
Eccentric Wrist Radial Deviation with a Hammer
Dynamic eccentric loading of the first dorsal compartment using a hammer as an asymmetric weight. In the advanced phase of De Quervain's tenosynovitis, it simulates the movements of picking up and setting down objects — remodels the tendon in a functional pattern.
Thumb Abduction with a Rubber Band
Isolated strengthening of the abductor pollicis longus in a pure palmar abduction plane (not combined with extension). Complements thumb extension — together they form the biomechanical pair of the first-dorsal-compartment muscles.