Thumb abduction–adduction
In-plane thumb away-and-back (CMC–MCP rhythm)
Goal
Trains adduction/abduction control separate from heavy pinch demands.
Motion taxonomy (reference)
Also called: thumb open close
Muscles — abductor pollicis brevis, abductor pollicis longus, adductor pollicis
Tendons — thumb abductor/adductor tendons
Bones / joints — first metacarpal, thumb CMC joint, thumb MCP joint
Indexed benefits: improves thumb mobility · supports pinch and grasp · widens web space
Common contexts: CMC stiffness · thumb mobility · web-space tightness
Best for
- Web-space mobility
- CMC stiffness
Default dose
12 reps • 3×/day
Avoid when
- Acute skier's thumb
- Healing UCL repair
Measurement targets
- Visual arc improvement
Setup
- Forearm supported; palm facing sideways or up.
Steps
- 1Lift the thumb away from the palm plane.
- 2Return to the hand.
- 3Repeat within tolerance.
Cues
- Keep the wrist quiet.
- Pain-free rhythm.
Common mistakes
- Rotating the whole forearm instead of the thumb.
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
- Light band resistance in abduction if cleared.
Regressions
- Smaller arc.
Used in
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
12 reps · 3×/day
None required — table or bodyweight only.
Phases 1, 2, 3, 4
Generally lower load — still respect pain and swelling.
Next 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.
Keep momentum without overdoing it
Log a short check-in to protect your streak — even one quality set counts.