Straight fist
FDS-isolated flexion (MCP + PIP flexion, DIP extension)
Selectively glides FDS; complements hook and full fist in the tendon-glide ladder.
Best for
- Isolated FDS glide
- Selective tendon mobilization
Default dose
10 reps • 3×/day
Avoid when
- Repaired FDS tendon without protocol clearance
Measurement targets
- PIP active flexion (degrees)
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
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.
~2–5 min as a focused practice block
10 reps · 3×/day
None required — table or bodyweight only.
Phases 2, 3
Higher load or coordination — scale range and speed.
Avoid if this sounds like you
Repaired FDS tendon without protocol clearance
Reread best-for context ↑Where this shows up clinically
How phases map to healingNext best movements
Later phase or richer progression when you are ready.
Prerequisite / gentler lane
Same region and intent — usually earlier phase or lower risk.
Commonly paired with
Different primary goal, same region — typical mixed sessions.
Related movements
Similar mechanics, goals, or anatomy.
Keep momentum without overdoing it
Log a short check-in to protect your streak — even one quality set counts.