The extensor tendons are located on the back portion of your hands and fingers. These tendons provide you with the ability to straighten your fingers as well as your thumb. They also create finger motion and coordination. Extensor tendons can become injured due to their location and delicate nature. Stretches following an injury to the extensor tendons can help increase finger function and restore range of motion in your hands.
Small Object Pick Up
Place a wide variety of small, unbreakable items on a table in front of you. Items can include coins, safety pins, marbles, paper clips and buttons. Use your affected finger and your thumb to pick these objects up and transfer them to the opposite side of the table. Practice this exercise for five minutes, three times each day.
Make a Fist
Making a simple fist is the best way to stretch multiple extensor tendons that have been affected by injury. Hold your hand in the air with all of your fingers spread apart. Slowly bend your hand into a fist using all of your fingers. You can use your other hand to assist in making the fist if need be. Clench your fist as tightly as possible and hold this position for 10 seconds. Repeat one set of 10 repetitions. If making a fist is too difficult, start by grasping a small rubber ball or tennis ball. Move to just making a fist as you progress.
Finger Extending
Finger extending can help improve flexibility and range of motion in your fingers. Place your hand on a table, palm down, with your fingers spread slightly. Slowly raise each of your fingers, one by one. If you need to, use your other hand pick up your affected fingers. Raise each finger as high as you comfortably can and hold it for a count of five seconds. Complete one set of five repetitions of this exercise.
Hand Folds
Hold your hand up in the air with your palm facing you. Keep your thumb out to the side and hold your fingers close together. Bring your finger tips down in the direction of your palm while keeping your knuckles straight. Try to touch as far down on your palm as possible. Hold this position for a few seconds and then resume the starting position. Complete one set of 10 repetitions.
