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Open full guided demo: Soft grip squeeze

Ring MCP flexion isometric

Resisted isometric flexion at the ring MCP (blocked)

StrengthFingersisometricflexionLow riskPhases 2, 3, 4

Goal

Graded RIM dosing supports independent ray strengthening before compound gripping.

Motion taxonomy (reference)

Also called: RIM · ring MCP isometric

View in Arthritis of the handGuided exercise

Best for

  • Ring-ray control
  • Power-grip preparation

Default dose

Reps6
Frequency2× daily
Sets / time2 rounds

6 reps • 2 sets • 5s hold • 2×/day

Avoid when

  • Acute hook of hamate region pain without diagnosis

Measurement targets

  • Hold time
  • Pain diary 0–10

Setup

  • Forearm neutral or slightly pronated on a table edge.

Steps

  1. 1Stabilize the ring proximal phalanx.
  2. 2Press the MCP into flexion against the block.
  3. 3Hold submaximal, then release.

Cues

  • Keep the small finger soft unless prescribed.

Common mistakes

  • Hyperextending the PIP while pushing.

Stop if you feel

Stop rules

  • Sharp pain (≥ 4/10)
  • Increasing swelling during or after
  • New or worsening numbness or tingling
  • Color change in fingers (pale, blue, red)
  • Wound opens, drains, or feels hot
  • Next morning is worse than the day before

Progressions

  • Pair with light putty squeeze later in rehab.

Regressions

  • Reduce hold to 3 seconds.

Used in

Arthritis of the hand▶ Soft grip squeeze

Search the exercise library with this motion's clinical label for additional guided drills that may match your plan.

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Continue your rehab

What to do next — not a dead end

Suggestions use body region, goal, motion type, and allowed phases — not your medical record. After surgery or a flare, follow your clinician first.

Estimated time

~1 min if held as written

6 reps · 2 sets · 5s hold · 2×/day

Equipment

None required — table or bodyweight only.

Rehab stage

Phases 2, 3, 4

Generally lower load — still respect pain and swelling.

When to stop

Sharp pain (≥ 4/10)

Increasing swelling during or after

Full stop rules ↑

Avoid if this sounds like you

Acute hook of hamate region pain without diagnosis

Reread best-for context ↑

Where this shows up clinically

How phases map to healing

Guided exercises that use this

Step-by-step sessions that embed this movement pattern.

Keep momentum without overdoing it

Log a short check-in to protect your streak — even one quality set counts.

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Scaling in plain language: Easier — Reduce hold to 3 seconds. · Harder — Pair with light putty squeeze later in rehab.Full cues ↑
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