Extensor Tendon Injuries

Your Injury

You have injured the extensor tendons, which straighten your fingers. These have been repaired by your surgeon and you now must work with your Hand Therapist to rehabilitate these tendons.

The repaired tendons are very delicate and need to be protected from being stretched. You may have been put in plaster following surgery and this will be changed to a lighter splint made by your therapist.

It is important that your splint is not removed unless advised by your therapist.

During the early stage, the first six weeks, your splint will be worn and you will be guided in a controlled active exercise regime to encourage mobility of your repaired tendons. You must not use your hand, for anything else other than your specific exercises.

Rehabilitation for your hand

This will involve:

• Wearing your splint to protect the repaired area(s).
• A controlled exercise regime supervised by your Hand Therapist.
• Scar massage with moisturising cream once your stitches are removed approximately ten to fourteen days post-operation.

You will be required to attend the Hand Therapy department regularly. Please inform the department if you are unable to attend your appointment or if you have any concerns about your hand.

Exercises for your fingers (1 – 4 weeks)

1. Keeping your fingers straight on the splint –

(b) lower them back to the splint

Repeat 10 times every hour.

3. Bend and stretch your thumb across your palm.
4. Stretch your arm above your head, straightening your elbow. This will prevent your arm and shoulder becoming stiff.

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