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Tendon Glide with Thumb Stretch

By , PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS·

Quick answer

A tendon glide with thumb stretch helps the tendons in the carpal tunnel slide more freely. Adding the thumb stretch opens up the carpal tunnel. Start in a fist with the thumb out, holding it with your other hand. Then straighten your elbow, bend your wrist back, uncurl your fingers and gently pull the thumb into a stretch. Reverse slowly. Do 2 sets of 10 slow repetitions, at least 3 to 4 times a week.

Tendon Glide with Thumb Stretch
Exercise Tendon Glide with Thumb Stretch
Frequency&Duration 2 Sets of 10 Slow Repetitions. At least 3-4x/week
This is another exercise to mobilize the tendons within the carpal tunnel. When the thumb stretch is incorporated, it opens up the carpal tunnel and allows better sliding of the tendons. To perform the exercise you will begin in position 1 and move to position 2 and reverse. See the table above for details
Tendon glide position 1: fist with the thumb out, the other hand holding the thumb

Position 1

Fist Position with Thumb out, arm holding thumb
Tendon glide position 2: elbow straight, wrist extended, fingers open, other hand pulling the thumb back

Position 2

Elbow straight, wrist extended, fingers uncurled, pulling Thumb for a stretch
Side view of position 2, with the wrist extended and the thumb pulled back for a stretch

Position 2 (Another View)

Elbow straight, wrist extended, fingers uncurled, Pulling Thumb for a stretch

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