Movement library
MobilityThumbPhases 1, 2, 3, 4
Radial abduction
Thumb radial abduction (in plane of palm)
Preserves radial side mobility for key pinch.
Best for
- Thumb mobility
- Side pinch preparation
Default dose
10 reps • 2×/day
Avoid when
- Acute CMC flare
Measurement targets
- Radial abduction angle (degrees)
Setup
- Palm flat on a table.
Steps
- 1Slide the thumb sideways away from the index finger along the table.
- 2Return.
Cues
- Stay in the plane of the palm.
Common mistakes
- Lifting the thumb up off the table.
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
- Add brief hold at end range.
Regressions
- Smaller arc.
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
~2–5 min as a focused practice block
10 reps · 2×/day
Equipment
None required — table or bodyweight only.
Rehab stage
Phases 1, 2, 3, 4
Generally lower load — still respect pain and swelling.
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.
Keep momentum without overdoing it
Log a short check-in to protect your streak — even one quality set counts.