Exercises for the thumb and fingers are important for maintaining good range of motion in the hands. Moving and bending the joints in the hands encourages blood flow and promotes flexibility. Such exercises are especially important if you suffer from arthritis or are confined to a bed or wheelchair. Thumb and finger exercising is also useful as part of a rehabilitation program following an injury to one of the fingers, as soon as your doctor says it is safe to begin such exercise.
Finger Abduction and Adduction
Spread fingers apart as widely as possible, then draw them back together. Repeat several times. This exercise can help reduce swelling of the fingers and provides the hand with a good stretch.
Thumb Stretch
Use your right hand to pull away the thumb of the left hand into the "thumbing a ride" position. Be sure to push at the base of the thumb, where it joins the hand; avoid pulling at the tip of the thumb since it can cause hyperextension. Hold briefly and repeat on the right thumb. The Hand Health Resources website recommends this stretch for people who text frequently.
Fingertip Touch
Each individual finger and the thumb are stretched in this exercise. Begin with fingers and thumbs stretched straight out. Draw your thumb across your palm, trying to touch the pad of your palm just under the little finger, then return your thumb to its original position. Next, form an "O" with your thumb and index finger, then straighten your fingers. Repeat the same "O" shape using your middle, ring and little fingers, each time returning fingers to the straightened position. Repeat exercise on the other hand.
Walking Fingers
MayoClinic.com recommends hand exercises such as this to those people who suffer from arthritis in the fingers. Slightly spread your fingers on a flat surface, such as a table, with palms down and fingers spread. One at a time, and beginning with the index finger, slowly lift and walk each finger toward the thumb. Your thumb and wrist should remain stationary throughout the exercise.
Finger Strengthening
The Family Doctor website recommends making a fist and holding it for several seconds as a method for strengthening an injured finger or hand. You can also perform this exercise while holding a soft "stress" ball or half of a tennis ball in your palm.
Finger Extension
Lay your hands flat on a table with palms down. One at a time, lift your fingers and thumbs.
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