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Date issued: July 2023

Review date: July 2025 

Ref: B-487/Occupational Therapy/ET/Zone 1 Extensor Tendon Repair

PDF:  Zone 1 Extensor Tendon Repair final July 2023.pdf[pdf] 101KB

Introduction

You have had the tendon that straightens the end joint of your finger repaired. In the short term, this will need to be protected in a splint; it will take several months to become strong.

Wearing your splint

The splint is fitted to stop the end of your finger bending and to protect your tendon repair.

Your splint should not be removed unless instructed to do so by your therapist – that includes showering / bathing.

Keep the splint away from anything hot (hot water / fire / radiator) as it will become soft and lose its shape.

Remember:

Keep your hand elevated to reduce the swelling

Keep your uninjured joints moving to prevent stiffness.

If your splint is rubbing or is uncomfortable please contact us.

Do not use your hand unless advised to do so by your therapist.

Exercise & Splint Regime:

Your therapist will assess and inform you when you can remove your splint. This could be between 4-8 weeks post-surgery.

1. When instructed remove the splint during the day but you must continue to wear the splint at night for a further 2 weeks.

2. However, if you have a job which involves heavy tasks / lifting then continue to wear the splint at work for a further two weeks then gradually wean off wearing it (or you are doing heavier tasks at home e.g., food shopping, DIY, gardening, hoovering etc)

3. Avoid making a full fist for a week.

4. If a lag develops and you are concerned, please contact us to discuss treatment options.

You will need to do regular exercises to prevent your finger becoming stiff and to allow the tendon to glide when it is strong enough to do so.

Week 1

1. Bend the finger tips in keeping the big knuckle straight (hook) with a 10 second hold; then stretch up fully straight.

2. Place your hand flat on the table; lift your affected finger off the table, leading from the nail, hold for 10 seconds then slowly lower.

Do 10 repetitions of these exercises; 4 x daily, slowly and carefully.

Week 2

As week one plus:

Make a full fist with a 10 second hold; then stretch up fully straight.

Do 10 repetitions of these exercises; 4 x daily, slowly and carefully.

Please be aware that there may always be a slight loss of full straightening of the finger at the completion of treatment.